The Public Investments Committee on Commercial Affairs and Energy has stressed the need for state agencies to enhance inclusivity and achieve balanced diversity in recruitment of staff.

The Committee chaired by Pokot South MP Hon. David Pkosing gave this directive as it continued with writing of reports after review of the audited financial statements for state agencies within the water sector, between Financial Years 2018/2019 and 2024/25.

MPs noted that there was the need for public entities to address disparities in the equitable distribution of employment opportunities and positions, to enhance progressive adherence to Article 27 of the Constitution and section 7 (2) of the National Cohesion and Integration Act.

Among the agencies captured in the Report is the North Rift Water Works Development Agency, Regional Centre on Groundwater Resources Education, Training, and Research in Eastern Africa, Tana Water Works Development Agency and Lake Victoria South Water Works Development Agency.

Committee Members noted that there was a particular need to promote inclusivity to ensure that marginalized groups, Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), and other underrepresented categories receive fair consideration in recruitment, appointments, and representation across different levels of employment.

“This has been a recurrent query across nearly all the agencies that we have audited, and it is very important that we strive towards attainment of equity in employment opportunities in our public entities,” noted Hon. Pkosing.

The MPs directed that the State agencies under scrutiny should demonstrate adherence to diversity in recruitment and to file a status report with the Office of the Auditor General for verification within three months of adoption of the Committee report.

The discussions provided an important opportunity to examine governance, accountability, and compliance issues affecting the institutions, with emphasis on strengthening public sector oversight and service delivery.

Equitable representation, members noted, is not merely a compliance requirement but also a fundamental aspect of fairness, equal opportunity, and responsible public administration.

Agencies were therefore encouraged to demonstrate measurable progress in addressing these disparities and to provide clear explanations where gaps persist.

Another significant area of discussion concerned accountability for land under the management of the water sector agencies. The committee stressed the importance of proper land records, clear ownership documentation, and effective safeguards against encroachment, irregular allocation, and possible loss of public assets.

The deliberations reinforced the importance of providing comprehensive responses to audit queries, supported by verifiable documentation and practical measures for resolving identified weaknesses.

The day’s engagements reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to promoting transparency, equitable representation, prudent management of public assets, and accountability among agencies in the water sector.