Government-Funded Markets And Roads Left Abandoned As Contractors Blame Delayed Payments

Multimillion government projects in Bungoma County have come to a grinding halt, leaving half-built markets and unfinished roads as stark reminders of stalled development.

Despite massive allocations, work on key infrastructure projects has been abandoned for months, with contractors blaming delayed government payments for the inactivity.

In the meantime, some sites have turned into looting grounds, as locals steal construction materials due to lack of fencing and security.

On Friday 4th April, a progress tour by the Presidential Delivery Unit and Bungoma County Commissioner Thomas Sankei revealed a troubling reality, critical projects launched by President William Ruto during last year’s Madaraka Day celebrations are at a standstill.

The high-profile projects include:

· Soko Kubwa Market – 2.8 million
· Chwele Market – 2.6 million
· Mateka Market – 390,000Million
· Malakisi Market – 390,000 Million

Of these, work at Mateka, Malakisi, and Lwandanyi markets has been suspended indefinitely. Site engineers cite lack of funds, despite numerous appeals to the government.

Commissioner Sankei did not hold back his frustration, directly blaming contractors for the delays.

“The government is committed to completing these projects on time, but some contractors are failing us. It is a big shame to see projects launched by the President himself left abandoned,” said Sankei.

Yet, he also acknowledged that delayed government funding was a key problem and urged agencies to process outstanding payments swiftly.

“We can’t put all the blame on contractors. Those in charge of payments must act quickly to prevent further stagnation.”

While the government and contractors exchange blame, those most affected are local traders who were displaced by the projects.

“A few months ago, we were forced to sell under the scorching sun. Now the rains have come, and our goods are rotting,” lamented Harriet Amoit, a trader at Malakisi Market.

“This market was supposed to be completed in six months. It’s been over a year now. We’re losing hope.” She added.

Government Delivery Unit official Allan Luvungu admitted that delays in funding have contributed to the crisis but assured that steps were being taken to fast-track payments.

“We have identified the key challenges, and we will advise the government on urgent solutions,” he said.