- MPs reject the Ministry of ICT’s 2025 Budget Policy Statement (BPS).
- Lawmakers cite financial inconsistencies, stalled projects, and lack of public engagement.
- The Ministry, led by CS William Kabogo, questioned over inactive public Wi-Fi and uncompleted projects.
- Principal Secretary Eng. John Tanui acknowledges challenges but promises solutions.
MPs Criticize ICT Ministry’s Performance
The parliamentary Committee on Communication, Information, and Innovation has rejected the 2025 Budget Policy Statement (BPS) from the Ministry of ICT and Digital Economy, citing transparency concerns and stalled projects.
During the session chaired by Dagoretti South MP John Kiarie, lawmakers expressed frustration over the Ministry’s accountability, questioning its effectiveness despite flagship projects like the digital superhighway and 1,450 digital hubs.
“We want to hear you, feel you, and see you in public,” MP Bensouda told ICT CS William Kabogo. “People don’t even know what digital hubs are or what the Ministry actually does.”
Concerns Over Unfinished Projects
MPs highlighted several issues, including:
- Inactive public Wi-Fi hotspots meant to boost digital connectivity.
- Stalled Studio Mashinani initiative, which was aimed at supporting local creatives.
Challenges at the Kenya Institute of Mass Communication (KIMC) affecting students and programs.
“We don’t want to be a government that just speaks and doesn’t deliver,” MP Geoffrey Wandeto stated, demanding visible results.
Ministry Responds, But Budget Remains Rejected
Principal Secretary Eng. John Tanui acknowledged sustainability issues with digital hubs and public Wi-Fi but assured MPs that the Ministry was working on long-term solutions.
Despite these assurances, the committee maintained that the Ministry had not effectively utilized public funds, leading to the budget’s rejection until further clarifications are provided.
