Public Petitions Committee Debates Proposed Fund Shift for Irrigation Development
In a recent session, the Public Petitions Committee debated a petition from former MP Hon. Kinoti Gitobu, advocating for the redirection of funds from the Road Maintenance Levy Fund to support irrigation infrastructure development. The petition, presented on behalf of Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO), seeks legislative amendments to the Irrigation Act (No.14 of 2019), the Kenya Roads Board Act (No.7 of 1999), and the Road Maintenance Levy Fund Act (No.9 of 1993).
Hon. Gitobu, who served Buuri Constituency in the 11th Parliament, argued that reallocating a portion of the Road Maintenance Levy Fund would enhance irrigation infrastructure across Kenya’s 290 constituencies. However, committee members raised concerns about the potential impact on road maintenance and overall national development.
Kuria East MP, Hon. Marwa Kitayama, questioned the rationale behind diverting funds from road maintenance, suggesting that the Agriculture or Blue Economy sectors could be more appropriate sources for irrigation funding. He advised Hon. Gitobu to explore alternative funding mechanisms for SHOFCO’s initiatives.
In response, Hon. Janet Sitienei, Vice Chairperson of the Committee, recommended that the petitioner avoid altering the Road Maintenance Levy Fund. Instead, she encouraged focusing on developing effective implementation structures to assist in the consideration of the petition.
The committee’s discussion underscores the complexities of balancing infrastructure funding while addressing pressing development needs. The debate highlights the need for a strategic approach to ensuring sustainable development across various sectors.
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