Members of Parliament have taken issue with the Ministry of Information, Communication and Digital Economy for failing to equip digital hubs built in various constituencies, rendering them non-functional despite significant investment in infrastructure.
The National Assembly’s Implementation Committee expressed frustration over what they termed as prolonged delays that risk derailing the government’s digital transformation agenda and leading to the misuse of public funds.
Led by Budalangi MP Raphael Wanjala, the committee urged the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) CEO, Yusuf Mbuno, to provide detailed data on areas ready for digital centre activation.
“It’s disappointing that these digital centres remain unused while constituencies have already completed construction. We need clear information on how many are ready so we can engage the ICT Ministry meaningfully,” said Wanjala.
Embakasi West MP Mark Mwenje voiced similar concerns, citing lack of support from the ministry after constituencies invested NG-CDF resources into the hubs.
“These centres are idle simply because the Ministry hasn’t come through with equipment. This delay shows a lack of commitment,” said Mwenje.
Mandera South MP Abdul Haro warned that the initiative could collapse altogether if the ministry does not act swiftly. The committee had invited ICT Principal Secretary John Tanui to explain the delays, but he did not appear.
Meanwhile, MPs underscored the importance of inclusive designs for the hubs, with Vice-Chairperson Rose Museo calling for disability-friendly features to ensure access for all citizens.
Mombasa Woman Representative Zamzam Mohamed and Lamu West MP Stanley Muthama emphasized the need for cultural sensitivity in the design of the facilities, especially in areas with gender-specific requirements.
“In predominantly Muslim constituencies, the design should reflect our religious and cultural norms by providing separate spaces for young men and women,” said Zamzam.
Other MPs, including Turkana East’s Nicholas Ngikor, noted the importance of stable internet connectivity and consistent power supply for the hubs to function effectively. Igembe North MP Julius Taitumu added that transparency must be maintained in the tendering process for building the centres.
In response, NG-CDF CEO Yusuf Mbuno assured legislators that consultations with the ICT Ministry had already addressed many of the concerns raised, including design standards.
Mbuno confirmed that NG-CDF committees would continue overseeing site selection, funding, and maintenance, while the ICT Ministry would focus on staffing, connectivity, and technical support.
“These new guidelines offer clarity and pave the way for proper collaboration. We now have a clear framework on responsibilities,” Mbuno told the committee.
He added that once operational, the digital hubs would play a crucial role in expanding the digital economy and improving citizen access to online government services.