Nearly 80 per cent of audit recommendations made by the Auditor General have not been acted upon by both national and county governments, raising concerns about accountability in the use of public resources.
Auditor General Nancy Gathungu said the failure to implement audit findings continues to undermine transparency and service delivery.
Speaking during the launch of the Auditor General’s Eastern Regional offices in Embu County, Gathungu revealed that only 21 per cent of audit recommendations have been carried out. “Only 21 per cent of audit recommendations have been implemented. This means a staggering 79 per cent remain unaddressed,” she said, calling the situation “deeply disappointing” and a sign of weak commitment to fiscal responsibility and good governance.
She urged county governments to tighten procurement processes by introducing exit clauses in contracts, which would allow lawful termination where contractors fail to deliver. “The inclusion of such provisions is critical in safeguarding public funds and ensuring that quality is not compromised,” Gathungu stated.
Her concerns come at a time when public criticism over the misuse of taxpayer money is mounting, with growing demands for stronger accountability measures across all levels of government.
The new ultra-modern Eastern Regional Office Block in Embu was officially opened during the event. The facility was established through a partnership involving the Ministry of Defence, Kenya Defence Forces, the Office of the Auditor General, and the County Government of Embu. It will serve Embu, Tharaka Nithi, and Meru counties.
Defence Principal Secretary Patrick Mariru said the project reflects the value of collaboration in delivering impactful results to citizens. “This facility demonstrates the power of collaboration in delivering impactful, sustainable projects to our citizens. It brings services closer to the people, enhances public service delivery, and contributes to local economic growth,” Mariru said. He added that the Ministry of Defence is playing a growing role in supporting development beyond security.
Gathungu described the new facility as “a symbol of transparency, accountability and service to the people,” and called on auditors, public officials, and citizens to ensure it becomes “a beacon of transparency, accountability and transformation.”
Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire thanked all stakeholders for their support and stressed the importance of audit services in boosting efficiency and service delivery both at the national and county levels.
