MPs Halt Solar Water Project Officials Over Site Reduction

Members of Parliament on the Natural Resources Committee have expressed strong disapproval and sent away officials from the Ministry of Water and Environment. The officials were summoned to account for the implementation of Phase One of the Solar-Powered Water Supply and Irrigation Project, a venture funded by a €111 million (approximately Shs440 billion) loan.

The core of the committee’s dissatisfaction stemmed from the ministry’s decision to unilaterally reduce the number of approved project sites from 920 to 687. Legislators highlighted that such a significant alteration to a project approved by Parliament, especially one financed by a loan that taxpayers will eventually repay, required prior authorization. The absence of this approval left the committee questioning the ministry’s adherence to due process and accountability.

Adding to the concerns, the committee also learned that a feasibility study had not been conducted before the commencement of Phase One. Ministry officials attempted to explain the project’s difficult start under the Ministry of Agriculture before its transfer to the Ministry of Water and Environment, suggesting this was the reason for the changes.

However, this explanation did not placate the MPs. Committee chairperson Dan Kimosho ultimately dismissed the officials, demanding that they return with comprehensive documentation. This includes detailed explanations for the reduction in water sites, the findings of a feasibility study, and a clear accounting of how the €111 million loan funds have been utilized.

The committee’s directive underscores the critical need for transparency and accountability in the management of public funds and infrastructure projects, particularly as the government prepares to embark on the project’s second phase. The ministry is expected to provide the requested documentation before the committee can proceed with its oversight of the project.