- Auditor-General says billions meant for housing cannot be fully tracked
- Sh19.6 billion from a World Bank loan raised concern during an MPs’ session
- Missing records blocked a proper audit of the housing funds
- Lawmakers warn the issue could damage public trust
Auditor-General Nancy Gathungu has sounded an alarm over nearly Sh20 billion set aside for Kenya’s affordable housing drive, saying her office cannot clearly trace how the money was used.
She revealed the issue while appearing before Members of Parliament, triggering fresh debate around accountability in the government’s housing plans.
At the centre of the concern is Sh19.6 billion borrowed from the World Bank and passed through the Kenya Mortgage Refinance Company (KMRC). Gathungu told MPs that auditors were unable to properly confirm how the funds were spent.
According to her, crucial financial records were not fully available, making verification difficult.
The Auditor-General explained that limited access to documents prevented her team from confirming whether the funds were used for their intended purpose. She said this situation makes it impossible to assure Kenyans that the money delivered real value.
Gathungu described the lack of transparency as unacceptable, especially given the size of the loan and its impact on public housing.
The disclosure unsettled lawmakers, with several MPs warning that unclear handling of housing funds could weaken confidence in the programme. Some called for closer examination of KMRC’s operations and stricter oversight of loans tied to housing projects.
They argued that large public investments must come with clear accountability.
Government officials have insisted that the funds were used correctly. However, pressure continues to mount for full disclosure and the release of all supporting records to allow a complete audit.
MPs say assurances alone are not enough without documents to back them up.
As debate continues in Parliament, Kenyans are once again questioning whether bold housing promises are being matched with openness and responsibility.
With affordable housing a key pillar of the current administration, the spotlight now turns to whether accountability will follow the ambition.
