Audit Flags Baringo County Over Unexplained Expenditures and Irregular Procurement
Baringo County is under scrutiny after Auditor General Nancy Gathungu’s latest report exposed significant financial inconsistencies during the 2020–2021 financial year. The audit, tabled before oversight institutions, reveals disturbing patterns of unexplained spending, questionable tender awards, delayed projects, and failure to remit statutory deductions—issues that place the county’s financial management under serious doubt. The findings have sparked fresh debate on accountability within the devolved unit, raising concern about the potential loss of millions in taxpayer funds.
According to the audit, Baringo County engaged in a series of irregular procurement processes, including restricted tendering for advisory services worth Sh12.51 million without proof of competitive sourcing. The report also highlights questionable changes in contractors for the construction of the Kewangoi maize store, where contracts were awarded and terminated multiple times, leading to overpayments and procedural breaches. Similarly, tenders for a maize store and a borehole valued at Sh6.81 million were found to have been issued in ways that violated procurement guidelines, with one bidder who had previously been disqualified later receiving part of the stalled contract.
The auditor further flagged several stalled and delayed projects worth over Sh100 million combined, noting that the county extended project timelines without recommendations from evaluation committees or proper documentation from contractors. Expenditures on seedlings, fish fingerlings, water system repairs, and pipeline rehabilitation—totalling tens of millions—were also questioned due to missing inspection reports, receipts, and beneficiary lists. Additionally, the report revealed unexplained payments including Sh17.60 million in staff allowances and Sh1.47 million in office furniture procurement that lacked supporting documents. Transfers amounting to Sh143.89 million were also unsupported, casting doubt on the accuracy and legality of the expenditures.
The findings have drawn concern from financial watchdogs and residents, who say the revelations point to deeper systemic weaknesses in the county’s financial oversight mechanisms. With projects stalled and essential services affected, citizens fear that mismanagement may hinder development in sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, and water services. The auditor’s report is expected to trigger further investigations by parliamentary committees and anti-corruption bodies. Moving forward, governance experts are urging Baringo’s leadership to tighten procurement controls, improve transparency, and take corrective action to restore public confidence in the county’s financial management.