At the 15th Ordinary Session of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR), the Kenyan delegation has strongly advocated for improved financial oversight and accountability to enhance public trust and strengthen resource mobilization efforts.
Led by Senate Speaker Rt. Hon. Amason Kingi, the delegation made its call during deliberations of the ICGLR Parliamentary Forum's Committee on Finance and Resource Mobilization in Luanda, Angola. The committee meeting formed a crucial part of the ongoing ICGLR Summit, which has drawn representatives from across member states to address pressing regional matters, including governance, peace, and development.
Speaking on behalf of the Kenyan ICGLR Parliamentary Caucus, Nyeri Senator Hon. Wahome Wamatinga emphasized the need for timely release and transparency of financial reports. He noted that the current delays and limited engagement of member states in audit processes undermine collective trust and deter potential resource contributors.
“Some of these reports need to be released in good time, so that the member states are also able to review and critique them properly,” said Sen. Wamatinga.
Echoing the sentiment, Buuri MP Hon. Mugambi Rindikiri pressed the ICGLR Finance Committee to adopt more stringent internal audits and consider involving external auditors to reinforce the credibility of its financial reports.
“The principal objective of this Committee is to oversight all the funds that come to ICGLR,” Hon. Rindikiri stated. “If these emerging concerns are not addressed, the report may face disapproval when it is tabled before the Executive Committee.”
The Kenyan delegation's concerns resonated with several other member states who raised questions regarding specific ICGLR expenditures, signaling a shared desire for improved financial governance within the regional bloc.
In response, Hon. Suzana Augusta, President of the ICGLR Finance and Resource Mobilization Committee, acknowledged the concerns and urged member states to fulfill their financial commitments. She emphasized that clearing outstanding arrears is crucial to expedite key regional priorities, particularly peace and security interventions in fragile states.
The Kenyan delegation’s stance marks a broader regional push for accountability and transparency as the ICGLR navigates complex challenges in governance and development across the Great Lakes Region.
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