The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has arrested nine individuals, including senior officials from the National Treasury and business proprietors, in connection with an alleged fraud involving KSh 1.57 billion.

The funds were intended for the Rural Outreach of Financial Innovations and Technologies (PROFIT) Programme, a joint initiative by the National Treasury and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) aimed at providing affordable financing to small-scale farmers between 2013/2014 and 2023/2024.

Details of the Alleged Fraud

Investigations revealed that the money was diverted to 23 private entities—comprising 15 business names and eight companies—for goods and services that were never delivered. Officials reportedly used forged documents to justify the expenditures.

Additionally, an unauthorized KCB Bank account was opened under the PROFIT Programme's name, through which approximately KSh 175 million was laundered, with significant cash withdrawals noted. Financial links between programme officials and the recipient entities were also uncovered.

Suspects and Charges

  • John Ngure Kabutha – PROFIT Programme Coordinator
  • Namwel Moturi Motanya – Head of Accounting Unit, National Treasury
  • John Maina Muriithi – Senior Accountant, National Treasury
  • Gladys Juliet Oroni – Proprietor of Mawindo Enterprises, Brigs Agencies, Green Basil Agencies
  • Brian Kiprop Chepkarat – Proprietor of El Konyinta Technologies
  • Ian Kwemoi Chepkarat – Director of 020 Investments Limited and Vidi Vici Ltd
  • Josephat Kamau Kamoshe – Director of Blue Dart Agencies Limited
  • James Omwodo Ndai – Proprietor of Ednas Agencies, Prozepp Technologies, Steeren Enterprises
  • Jimmy Carter Odoyo Osodo – Proprietor of Cadnic Investments

These individuals are set to be arraigned at Milimani Law Courts, facing charges including unlawful acquisition of public property, abuse of office, money laundering, and uttering false documents.

The Director of Public Prosecutions has authorized the prosecution of a total of 20 suspects, including other public officials and company directors, while 11 additional suspects have been ordered to report to EACC offices.

Next Steps

The EACC has pledged to pursue recovery and forfeiture of any public funds or assets obtained through corrupt means in this case.