NYS to be overhauled after EACC report finds major weaknesses in various departments

Devolution CS Ann Waiguru and NYS Director General Nelson Githinji receive Corruption Risk Assessment Report from EACC Director Halakhe Wago on Monday. [PHOTO: MOSES OMUSULA/STANDARD]

Kenya: The Devolution Cabinet Secretary Anne Waiguru says she will overhaul key departments at the National Youth Service as recommended by an audit report by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Corruption (EACC).

Waiguru Monday officially received the EACC report that examined NYS systems and processes. Waiguru said she is hopeful the implementation of the audit recommendation will restore public confidence in the service.

"I wrote to EACC in May 2014 asking them to undertake a thorough audit of the NYS systems and help us identify where there were weaknesses and potential risks to corruption. I am glad the report is finally complete and it will provide the much needed perspective," said the CS.

The report indicates there are delays in release of Authority-to-Incur expenditure (AIE), utilization of collected revenue at source; improper cash management practices, failure to update imprest records and to ensure that imprests are surrendered and cleared from the register on time and lack of a comprehensive fixed assets register.

Key recommendations in the section include banking of all revenue collected in line with the Government financial regulations; securing cash collection points and cash offices and maintenance of comprehensive fixed assets registers.

On procurement, it was established NYS was engaging in procurement without an approved procurement plan, delay in approving list of prequalified suppliers; use of brand names when requisitioning or inviting bidders.

The report was launched at the Kenya School of Monetary Studies, Nairobi by EACC CEO Halakhe Waqo in presence of Waiguru and other ministry officials including Principal Secretaries Mwanamaka Amani Mabruki(Devolution ) and Peter Mangiti(Planning) and NYS Director Dr Nelson Githinji.