Regional Commissioner warns Machakos contractors over delayed projects

Lower Eastern Regional Commissioner Jacob Muganda has faulted contractors in Machakos County over delayed government projects despite full funding.

Speaking during a tour of national government projects in the county, Muganda expressed concern over the slow progress of key infrastructure projects, warning that lax contractors risk facing legal action.

He singled out the 21.5-kilometer Kivandini-Miseleni road in Mwala Sub-County, which is only 9.5 per cent complete despite works having commenced in December 2025. Construction of the road is valued at Sh1.2 billion.

“The slow pace of this road is denying Wananchi better roads for development,” Muganda said, adding that the government will not tolerate delays.

He directed the contractor to significantly improve progress within the next few weeks, failing which action will be taken.

“Money has been given by the government to the contractor for the completion of this project, and the president is keen on completing his projects,” he said.

The contractor pledged to fast-track work within two months.

The Regional Commissioner also raised concerns over the stalled Economic Stimulus Programme (ESP) markets at Mutituni and Kangundo, which have not been completed and handed over despite full payment.

He instructed the County Development Implementation Coordination Committee and security teams to follow up and establish the cause of the delays.

However, Muganda commended contractors handling the Affordable Housing Phase Two in Machakos and the Machakos University Student Village hostels. He noted that both projects are progressing well despite challenges including unpaved access roads, hard rock formations, power connectivity, and funding constraints.

Muganda also inspected and hailed the 13-kilometer single carriageway Kangundo-Kivaani road, which he said has made major strides.

“The contractors should keep up the good work as the community and the country are looking forward to the completion of government projects that the President promised,” he said.

He further visited the Machakos Water Supply Project, which is 80 percent complete but has surpassed its completion deadline, and the Machakos Sewerage Project, which is already in use.

He urged the contractors to pull up their socks and deliver the two water and sanitation projects within two months to benefit residents and align with the government’s development agenda for the region.

By Anne Kangero and Alex Mulili