EACC Investigates Sh837 Million Scholarship Funds in Uasin Gishu
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has launched investigations into the alleged embezzlement of Sh837 million by Uasin Gishu County officials. The funds, collected from parents under the Uasin Gishu Education Trust Fund, were meant to facilitate tertiary education for students in Finland and Canada during the 2021-22 financial year. According to the commission, the Trust Fund account, opened in May 2021, had accumulated Sh957 million from parents by December 2022.
EACC reports indicate that Sh257 million was transferred to agents and intermediaries to cover tuition fees for beneficiaries in overseas universities. Additionally, Sh57.5 million was withdrawn locally by county officials managing the Trust Fund, raising concerns of mismanagement and potential embezzlement. Currently, 233 students are enrolled in Finland and 45 in Canada under the program, which is now under close scrutiny to ensure accountability.
Former Uasin Gishu Governor Jackson Mandago, now the county senator, was questioned by the commission regarding his role in establishing and overseeing the program. Mandago defended his administration, stating that he handed over the responsibilities to his successor, Governor Jonathan Bii, and described the allegations as politically motivated. Meanwhile, over 300 parents staged protests in Eldoret seeking refunds, with some recording statements with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). The EACC has pledged to hold all culpable persons accountable and urged the county government to take appropriate administrative measures.