Kiambu County residents have been urged to embrace public participation forums to enhance democratic governance, ensure transparency, accountability and foster community engagement.
Salome Wainaina, the County Executive Committee Member for Lands, Housing, Physical Planning, Municipal Administration, and Urban Development said that by getting involved, their voices will be heard and their development needs prioritized.
Speaking in Kikuyu town during a consultative forum to deliberate and make proposals for the Municipal Plans FY 2024/2025, she emphasised that it is a constitutional right for every Kenyan to participate in public engagement forums.
The CECM stressed the importance of active participation by residents and noted that the consultation forums, set to run throughout this week, are designed to provide a platform for stakeholders and the public to voice their opinions, discuss critical issues, and propose innovative solutions.
“In line with constitutional requirements, the municipal plans FY 2024/2025 are being prepared through wide consultation from residents, stakeholders, and any other interested parties, this aims to cover various aspects of municipal planning, including infrastructure development, social services, environmental sustainability, and economic growth,” said Ms Wainaina.
She explained that the forums will outline a comprehensive framework designed to address the various needs and priorities of the municipalities over the coming year and also provide a long-term development blueprint for the twelve municipalities by outlining goals, initiatives, and strategies.
The planning process is part of the second phase of the Kenya Urban Support Programme, a project funded by the government of Kenya and International Development Association and the French Development Agency.
The initiative seeks to transform the economy, create wealth and employment, reduce poverty and inequality, and create a conducive environment for investment in the municipalities.
Acting Chief Officer for Lands, Housing, Physical Planning, Municipal Administration, and Urban Development, Martin Kangiri emphasised the necessity of public engagement to ensure that government projects align with the public’s needs and expectations.
“Public participation is key in government planning to ensure that the projects implemented are what the public truly needs and will benefit them directly,” he said.
Kangiri called on the public to heed this call and participate actively in these forums.
The exercise that began yesterday covered Thika, Githurai, and Kikuyu. Today the forums will be held in Juja, Ruiru, and Kiambu, followed by Karuri, Kabete, and Limuru on Thursday, and concluding with Gatundu, Lari, and Githunguri on Friday June 28, covering all twelve municipalities in Kiambu County.
By Wangari Ndirangu
