Audit review exposes delays and spending concerns at Street Families Fund

The management of land assets, financial records, and programme results at the Street Families Rehabilitation Trust Fund came under sharp scrutiny as Members of Parliament reviewed Auditor-General findings covering several financial years at Bunge Tower on Wednesday, April 15, 2026.

The Special Funds Accounts Committee, led by Migori Woman Representtaive Fatuma Mohammed, questioned whether the Fund is delivering value for money in its mandate to support street families across the country.

Lawmakers focused first on land parcels linked to the Fund, noting that several properties donated years ago have still not been formally registered. Some of the land, according to the audit review, has been taken over through encroachment, while ownership disputes remain unresolved.

Members warned that the delays are weakening the reliability of the Fund’s financial records.

The Fund Administrator, Caroline Towett, explained that the challenges stem from long-standing disputes over ownership, difficulties in processing title deeds, and complications linked to encroachment cases. She added that efforts are ongoing to regularise ownership and complete valuation once legal issues are settled.

Attention then shifted to financial management, where MPs raised concerns over gaps in documentation, including unsupported payment vouchers and inconsistencies between financial statements and supporting records.

Questions were also raised about high expenditure on travel, subsistence, and allowances compared to direct spending on rehabilitation activities.

In her response, the Fund Administrator said some of the discrepancies were caused by missing records and differences in reporting timelines, adding that corrective steps have already been taken.

“Payment records are now properly maintained at the Fund offices and are available for audit verification. We have also introduced measures to strengthen internal controls and enhance accountability.”

Beyond financial issues, the Committee pressed the Fund on its overall effectiveness, questioning why the number of street families remains high despite continued allocations. Members also sought clarity on coordination with county governments and the strength of reintegration and prevention programmes.

The Fund defended its approach, saying its mandate covers rescue, rehabilitation, reintegration, and prevention, and that it works with charitable organisations and county governments to support its programmes.

MP Fatuma Mohammed stressed the need for clear outcomes from public funds, saying public spending must reflect visible change in society and better accountability in all operations.

The Committee is expected to finalise its findings and issue recommendations after concluding its review of the Auditor-General’s reports.