Construction of the highly anticipated Marine Research Institute a project that is being carried out by Meru University in Central Imenti has come to a grinding halt due to financial constraints, raising concerns over the future of marine research and innovation in the region.
Scaffolding, exposed concrete frames, and an incomplete structure now characterize the project site, a stark contrast to the ambitious blueprint unveiled during its launch. The institute was expected to position Meru as a hub for inland aquatic research, attract scholarly talent, and bolster efforts in environmental sustainability. However, with budget allocations reportedly frozen, timelines have been disrupted and local expectations dimmed.
“We were hopeful this would bring more students, jobs, and investment to the area,” said a resident of the Abothoguchi ward. “Now it’s just a skeleton of what could have been.”
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While addressing the media recently, Vice Chancellor Prof. Romanus Odhiambo said that the project is 55 percent complete and he was hopeful that the government shall release more funds to necessitate its completion. Odhiambo stated that they need about Ksh500 million to complete the project.
“I really want to thank the government, which has so far provided Ksh300 million to the marine project which is almost 55 percent completion. We are still following with the government and we are in talks, and I just pray we are able to get more funding and see how we can develop this project,” said Odhiambo.
Odhiambo said that the institute, once complete shall offer a variety of job opportunities to the residents. He challenged locals to invest in hostels, hotels and other facilities to sustain students, staff and others once the institute opens its doors.
Stakeholders are urging the government and development partners to expedite funding to salvage the project. Meanwhile, students and researchers are left in limbo, caught between promise and paralysis.
By Masaki Enock
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