By Vicent Emong
Technical officers in Kumi District have been urged to prioritize transparency and accountability by ensuring proper launching and commissioning of government-funded projects, with stronger involvement of oversight authorities.
The call was made by James Kyomya, the Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC), during a recent road monitoring exercise in Kumi Municipality.
In a firm but conciliatory address to district stakeholders, Kyomya expressed concern that the Office of the RDC has on several occasions been left out of project launches and commissioning ceremonies, particularly those funded under the One Billion Shillings Road Fund.
“It has happened several times that district officials implement these projects without inviting the RDC’s office to witness the launch or commissioning,” Kyomya said. “This is public money. The Office of the RDC represents the central government and must be part of the oversight process.”
He emphasized that involving the RDC’s office strengthens supervision and promotes public confidence in government programs. According to him, commissioning ceremonies are not merely symbolic events but important accountability platforms where leaders engage communities and verify whether value for money has been achieved.
Kyomya noted that proper coordination between technical and political leaders ensures that development projects meet expected standards and directly benefit local residents.
However, the deputy RDC commended the municipal authorities for setting what he described as a positive example. He praised Kumi Municipality for consistently involving his office in monitoring and commissioning road works funded under the program.
“I want to appreciate the municipal leadership for their transparency and teamwork,” he said. “By inviting us to monitor and commission these road projects, they demonstrate a commitment to accountability and effective service delivery.”
Kyomya called on technical staff at both district and sub-county levels to embrace a culture of inclusiveness, cooperation, and open communication when implementing government projects.
He stressed that collaboration between technical teams, political leaders, and the RDC’s office remains critical to ensuring that public funds are properly utilized and that communities receive the full benefits of government investments.
Local leaders believe that improved oversight and joint monitoring will enhance service delivery, reduce misuse of funds, and accelerate development across Kumi District.
