Nairobi: The residents of Ithanga Kakuzi sub-county have been urged to continue supporting the government’s development agenda in the area, as it is committed to improving their livelihoods.
According to Kenya News Agency, the region, marked as one of Murang’a’s semi-arid areas, has struggled with a severe scarcity of water for both domestic use and agricultural activities for years. In response, the government has initiated a Sh3.5 billion water project through the Athi Water Works Development Agency (AWWDA). This project has already benefitted over 2,000 households, with plans to connect the remaining 7,000 households by August.
During the NGAAF economic empowerment forum at Kirathani Shopping Centre, Murang’a County Woman Representative Betty Maina emphasized the importance of supporting the government’s development initiatives. She urged residents to be responsible stewards of the new infrastructure being developed.
‘We need to speak with one voice, as the implementation of the agendas by the state is for our benefit as the taxpayers and dwellers of this region,’ Maina stated, stressing the need to avoid sabotaging efforts aimed at empowerment. She also advised the community to focus on unity and avoid divisive politics, noting that it was time to deliver on election promises.
Maina encouraged residents to take advantage of the ongoing long rains by planting fast-maturing crops suitable for the area, which can endure dry spells. ‘There are crops that are certainly going to do well in this region despite the heat and long periods of dry spells,’ she noted.
Jubilee-nominated Member of Parliament Sabina Chege urged elected leaders to concentrate on fulfilling their election mandates instead of focusing on the 2027 campaigns. She assured residents that the government will honor promises made during the recent presidential tour of the region, including a Sh1.2 billion rural electrification program set to begin in the next financial year.
Area MCA Alex Ndunda called on the government to expedite development projects, especially rural electrification and the rehabilitation of faulty transformers. He highlighted the potential improvements in living conditions and economic opportunities that electricity could bring to the region.
During the forum, 8 registered social groups received Sh800,000 to support their projects, and 5 institutions received 5,000-litre water tanks each for water conservation. Additionally, 5 groups were provided with beehives to start apiculture ventures. The event also saw 800 elderly men and women receive blankets, and all attendees were given food essentials.
