Wed Sep 11 09:43:00 UTC 2024: ## Kenyan MPs Grill Fisheries Ministry Over Sh1.6 Billion Fish Stock Assessment
**NAIROBI, Kenya** – The Kenyan Parliament’s Departmental Committee on Blue Economy, Water, and Irrigation is demanding answers from the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs over the expenditure of Sh1.6 billion on a fish stock assessment in the Indian Ocean.
During a recent committee meeting, lawmakers expressed concern over the lack of tangible results from the assessment, despite the significant allocation of funds. Members questioned the rationale for spending billions on “counting fish” while the country faces other pressing priorities.
The Ministry, led by Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho, defended the expenditure, stating that the assessment is crucial for attracting investors and understanding the entire marine ecosystem. However, the committee remains unconvinced, citing the absence of a comprehensive report on the findings and the lack of significant revenue generated from the fishing industry.
The committee has requested the Ministry to submit a detailed report on the assessment findings within the next week, demanding justification for the substantial spending.
The controversy highlights the growing scrutiny of government spending in Kenya, with lawmakers demanding accountability and transparency in the allocation and utilization of public funds.
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