Kisumu: Governor Irungu Kang’ata on Wednesday led residents in a public participation forum in Murang’a East Sub-County, where he highlighted key county development programmes aimed at improving service delivery across various sectors.
According to Kenya News Agency, the forum, held at Ihura Stadium, brought together farmers, traders, youth and other residents, providing wananchi with an opportunity to air their views and contribute to county development priorities. The event was supported by local Members of County Assembly.
Governor Kang’ata used the platform to educate residents on the ‘MyMurang’a’ App, the Kang’atacare health programme, the county budget process, and agricultural development, with a special focus on avocado farming as a key economic driver. He said the public participation exercise was part of efforts to strengthen inclusive governance and ensure residents are actively involved in decision-making processes affecting their development.
The governor emphasized the importance of the ‘MyMurang’a’ App in enhancing service delivery, saying it allows residents to access county services more efficiently. ‘The ‘MyMurang’a’ App is helping wananchi access services faster, receive important information and track county programmes without unnecessary delays. Technology is helping us bring services closer to the people,’ said Kang’ata.
On healthcare, Kang’ata clarified that the Kang’atacare programme is renewed annually not to remove members, but to update records and improve efficiency in service delivery. He explained that the renewal process helps maintain an accurate database, noting that some beneficiaries relocate while others pass away, making updates necessary for effective programme management. ‘The renewal process helps us refresh the system because some members relocate abroad while others unfortunately pass on. It is important to maintain an updated database, so the programme continues serving residents effectively,’ he said.
Agriculture, particularly avocado farming, featured prominently during the forum, with farmers receiving training conducted in partnership with Kakuzi Limited to enhance production standards and expand export opportunities. Kang’ata said the county government is focused on transforming avocado farming into a sustainable export-driven venture that will increase household incomes and improve livelihoods across Murang’a.
‘Our goal is to move toward a sustainable export-driven model that puts more money directly into the pockets of our hardworking farmers. By mastering global standards, we are securing the economic future of our families and community for generations to come,’ he said. Deputy Governor Stephen Munania urged farmers to adopt modern farming practices and adhere to international quality standards to remain competitive in global markets. ‘Avocado farming has become one of the strongest economic pillars in Murang’a. Through training, partnerships and access to quality seedlings, we are empowering farmers to earn more and compete globally,’ said Munania.
During the event, the county government distributed avocado seedlings to farmers, noting that each seedling currently retails at Sh360 from Kakuzi Limited. The leaders said the initiative aims to encourage more residents to engage in avocado farming and boost production for export markets. Farmers who attended the forum welcomed the training and support, saying the initiative would improve farming practices, increase productivity and open access to better markets.
