The Director of Public Prosecutions, Noordin Haji, has ordered the confiscation of properties linked to illicit proceeds from multibillion-shilling dam projects, warning that Kenyans risk losing billions through alleged corruption. Investigations into the tendering and procurement processes for projects like Itare, Embobut, Kimwarer, Arror dams, and Napuu II irrigation have identified assets purchased with illicit funds, according to Haji.
Key witnesses have provided evidence of irregularities, including discrepancies in tender awards and payments. Haji emphasized that properties—primarily in Nairobi’s high-end areas—will be prioritized for seizure. The Kimwarer and Arror projects, managed by the Kerio Valley Development Authority (KVDA), are central to the probe, with investigators scrutinizing a Sh65 billion contract where Sh21 billion has already been disbursed, contradicting earlier claims of a Sh7 billion investigation.
KVDA officials, including Managing Director David Kimosop and engineer Paul Serem, have been questioned over allegations of kickbacks to officials. The authority claims only Sh7.8 billion was paid, while investigators allege up to Sh21 billion, including Sh4 billion in suspected bribes. Over 100 individuals have been interrogated, with the probe expanding internationally to track illicit funds.
Haji reiterated that prosecutions will be conducted without political influence, stating, "Any ensuing prosecutions will be undertaken professionally devoid of any witch hunt, political considerations or any other extraneous matters." The KVDA, established in 1979, faces scrutiny over its role in the projects, which aim to generate 60 and 20 megawatts of electricity respectively.
