Embu: The County Government of Embu has embarked on a process of establishing and chartering three new municipalities in a bid to bring services close to the people and attract external donor funding.
According to Kenya News Agency, the three towns earmarked for elevation to municipal status are Runyenjes in Runyenjes Constituency, Kiritiri in Mbeere South Constituency, and Siakago in Mbeere North Constituency. These towns will supplement the existing Embu Municipality in Manyatta Constituency, which serves as the county headquarters.
County Executive Committee Member (CECM) in charge of lands, Raymond Kinyua, announced that the process is already underway, following the inauguration of ad hoc committees two months ago by Governor Cecily Mbarire. These committees will oversee the delineation and review of boundaries for the proposed municipalities.
Kinyua described the move as a significant step for the devolved unit in its urban development agenda, laying the foundation for a well-planned, sustainable, and inclusive entity that will enhance service delivery and unlock greater socio-economic opportunities for residents. Speaking to the press from his office, Kinyua emphasized that the new municipalities will be crucial in driving sustainable development and improving the quality of life for the people.
He highlighted that municipalities directly attract donor funding and grants both locally and internationally, lead to infrastructure improvements such as roads, efficient governance, and also build investor confidence. The county is expecting to receive a report from the ad hoc committee by December, after which individual charters will be tabled for debate, review, and approval by the County Assembly before being awarded by the Governor.
Kinyua projected that the municipalities will be operational by April next year. Additionally, the county is exploring collaboration with the County Government of Kirinyaga to elevate Makutano Town, which is a major transport and economic hub, to municipality status. This elevation is expected to significantly boost the economy of the area and the county at large.
