MPs strike deal to take over NYS projects

Public Service CS Sicily Kariuki

A Cabinet secretary met MPs to reach a new deal on implementation of multi-million-shilling projects in their constituencies.

The projects were being conducted by National Youth Service (NYS) before the agency was embroiled in graft allegations. The deal that was spearheaded by Public Service CS Sicily Kariuki will see MPs designated as champions of the projects in their electoral zones and they will also benefit from NYS equipment and expertise in their projects.

 Under the MOU, the Government will consult with the MPs to agree on what projects should be given priority in constituencies.

“As part of making Kenya a youth-focused economy, we are working with 76,000 youths who will be engaged in community programmes like building bridges, roads and water dams, among other projects,” said Kariuki.

She added the MPs will then utilise the cohorts’ experience and NYS equipment such as bulldozers, rollers and tractors to implement their projects. Addressing 72 MPs, who represent areas where there are NYS projects, Kariuki said focus will be given to projects that stalled after the institution was mired in corruption scandals.

“We have been given mandate to finish the projects that were started. We will focus on high-impact projects that are in line with the national development agenda,” Kariuki said last Friday at NYS headquarters in Nairobi.

She revealed that NYS programmes and resources like financial management, procurement and inventory management systems have been strengthened to enhance accountability and transparency in the use of public funds.

“I laud the President for ordering that we start on a new slate and I promise that we are ready to deliver. Anyone engaging in corruption will carry his or her own cross,” said the CS.

And to make sure that money meant for cohorts does not end into other people’s pockets, she said they will be paid through a smart card.

“Initially, cohorts were paid through Mpesa but now we have introduced a visa card called Huduma card. The money will be paid every Friday through four local banks,” she said.

The projects began at Kibera on Saturday.