Auditor General Edward Ouko. He has warned county governments against misusing public funds. [Photo/Standard]
The Auditor General’s office has opened North Eastern regional hub office, which will serve the larger northern part of the country.
The office, which will be based in Garissa, is a clear indication that the office seeks to strengthen its oversight of different projects and progrmames in the counties.
Speaking when he officially opened the office, Auditor General Edward Ouko challenged governors to work towards ensuring Kenyans get value for money, especially now that the counties are receiving a lot of resources.
“It is not only about auditing and coming up with reports, but ensuring that resources go into programmes and projects which impact positively on the common mwananchi,” Ouko said as quoted by Citizen.
County governments have in the first term of their existence been accused of misappropriating funds and resources, with many governors finding themselves in court over the same matter.
“To ensure this does not happen, we are spreading our wings to each and every county by building more offices and posting enough staff. This is one way of ensuring that projects are delivered on time and resources better utilized,” added the Auditor General.
He further said the newly opened office will ensure that governors are held accountable, and that they deliver on their mandate.
“We built this office in a record 18 months at a cost Ksh.160 million. We have demonstrated through this project that public money can be prudently utilized and delivered on time,” said Mr. Ouko.
They intend to build similar offices in different areas of the country including Kakamega and Eldoret.