Committee on tourism raises concern over delays in payment for KICC contractors

The Departmental Committee on Tourism and Wildlife is concerned about delayed payment of money owed to the 14 contractors who renovated the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) last year, ahead of the international Climate Change Summit that brought together Heads of State and other delegates.

During a meeting with representatives of the contractor, the Committee chaired by Hon. Kareke Mbiuki noted that the delay in payments was unjustified.

“We are concerned that despite the contractors delivering their work before the international Summit they have not been paid all their dues,” said Hon. Mbiuki.

The contractors were led by Ms. Mercy Meria who told Members that they were subcontracted by a Chinese national identified as Mr. Wu Yi to do the facelift of the iconic building.

“We were only paid 17 percent of what was due to us by the Chinese company,” Ms. Meria said.

The contractors thanked the Committee for agreeing to give them an ear on the matter following their petition but noted that the delay in payment had subjected them to untold suffering.

“We have sleepless nights because auctioneers keep knocking on our doors,” said Mr Mohammed Munyanya, one of the contractors.

Kuresoi MP, Hon. Alfred Mutai said the Committee will not allow the said company to use its financial muscles to frustrate the local contractors.

“The work the local contractors have done can be seen. I wonder why some people somewhere are holding onto their money,” Hon. Mutai said.

Ijara MP, Hon. Ali Abdi agreed with the contractors saying they had grievances which the Committee will address with the seriousness it deserves.

The Committee said it will invite the Cabinet Secretary (CS), Ministry of Defense Hon. Aden Duale and the managers of the company to shed light on the matter.