Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture and Livestock Development Mutahi Kagwe has inaugurated a Ministerial Audit Committee. The launch ceremony took place at Kilimo House, attended by Principal Secretary for Agriculture Dr. Kipronoh Ronoh and Agriculture Secretary Harun Khator.
Kagwe emphasized that the committee is part of the Ministry’s broader reform agenda aimed at addressing systemic weaknesses before they escalate. “We are running an open shop with utmost transparency,” Kagwe said. “For auditors, we have no problem with any exposure being made, as long as it is genuine and rooted in evidence. We urge this committee not to take on the role of a mortician come in as a problem solver.”
Formed on November 13, 2024, under Section 73(5) of the Public Finance Management Act, 2012, and officially gazetted in April 2016, the committee comprises professionals with diverse expertise in public finance, governance, and risk management.
William Okari Masita, a seasoned financial oversight expert, will chair the committee. His leadership is expected to bring professionalism and integrity to the team’s operations. Other members include Kasembeli Wafula Nasiuma, known for his strong background in corporate governance and public service reform; Douglas Owiti Nyangidi, who brings a wealth of experience in audit review and performance monitoring; and Ann Wangechi Mwathi, who specializes in public expenditure control and audit follow-ups.
John Kariuki, representing the National Treasury, will ensure that the committee’s recommendations align with national financial oversight frameworks and government budgetary priorities.
To facilitate the committee’s effectiveness, Kagwe instructed Principal Secretaries Dr. Ronoh and Jonathan Mueke of Livestock to organize a detailed induction session. This will familiarize members with the ministry’s structure, ongoing projects, and key accountability expectations.
The establishment of this audit committee marks a significant milestone in the Ministry’s pursuit of improved governance and operational transparency, reinforcing its commitment to proactive problem-solving and fiscal responsibility.
