Kagwe launches audit committee to boost transparency at agriculture ministry

The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development has inaugurated a new Ministerial Audit Committee as part of efforts to enhance transparency and accountability in its operations.

The ceremony, held at the Kilimo House boardroom, was presided over by Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe, alongside Principal Secretary for Agriculture Dr. Kipronoh Ronoh and Agriculture Secretary Harun Khator.

Kagwe stressed the Ministry’s commitment to openness, saying the committee’s role is not only to highlight irregularities but to help fix problems before they escalate.

“We are running an open shop with utmost transparency,” he 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.”

The audit committee was formed on November 13, 2024, under Section 73(5) of the Public Finance Management Act, 2012, and later gazetted in April 2016.

The team is made up of professionals drawn from various sectors with a blend of expertise in public finance, governance, and risk management.

William Okari Masita will serve as the chairperson. He brings in years of experience in audit and financial oversight, having served in several public institutions.

His leadership is expected to steer the committee’s work with professionalism and integrity.

Kasembeli Wafula Nasiuma, also a member of the committee, has a background in finance and corporate governance.

He has previously held senior roles in public service and is known for his attention to detail and commitment to institutional reform.

Douglas Owiti Nyangidi joins the committee with a track record in audit review processes and public sector performance monitoring.

His experience will be crucial in reviewing both internal and external audit recommendations.

Ann Wangechi Mwathi brings experience in accounting and public expenditure control, having worked with oversight bodies on audit follow-ups and fiscal discipline.

Representing the National Treasury is John Kariuki.

His role will ensure the committee’s work aligns with broader government financial oversight efforts and that its recommendations integrate well within national budget and audit frameworks.

Kagwe directed the Principal Secretaries—Dr. Ronoh and Jonathan Mueke of Livestock—to arrange an induction session for the committee.

The aim is to enable the members to start their oversight work fully briefed on the ministry’s operations and expectations.