The Government plans to address the economic growth in the country as the nation marks the 61st Madaraka Day celebrations tomorrow, Saturday, June 1st, in Bungoma County, Government Spokesperson, Dr. Isaac Mwaura has announced.
Dr. Mwaura said that Madaraka Day marks Kenya’s self-internal rule, which was achieved in June 1963 when the country gained full control of its political, social, and economic affairs.
He noted that the Madaraka celebration allows Kenyans to reclaim and celebrate cultural heritage, and foster national pride and unity, adding that the celebrations themed ‘Agriculture and Food Security’ align with the government’s commitment to showcase the western region’s economic potential in Agriculture.
“Economic activities in the western region are diverse and robust, including sugarcane farming in Bungoma County, which drives the local economy; maize, millet, sorghum, and livestock farming, which sustain the community, among others,” he highlighted.
Dr. Mwaura stated that the government has implemented strategic interventions that will support economic activities and efforts to revive the sugar industry, including public sugar mills, while also providing subsidised fertilizers and supporting legislative measures.
Additionally, Dr. Mwaura revealed that agricultural projects such as the Lower Nzoia irrigation project will have over Sh3.2 billion in additional funds and establish industrial parks across the counties to boost productivity and economic growth.
“Affordable housing projects, which cost approximately Sh 1.6 billion in Kakamega and Vihiga counties, are already providing employment opportunities and improving the living conditions of residents,” he affirmed, adding that the government is committed to enhancing infrastructure and social services in the region.
Dr. Mwaura reiterated that the completion of Phase 1 of the Masinde Muliro project in Kanduyi Sub County, which will cost Sh. 807 million, and the rehabilitation of Matulo Airstrip, which will cost Sh139 million for commercial flights, mark significant milestones.
He added that Phase II, covering terraces, perimeter fences, and access passes, is nearly complete at an additional cost of Ksh 790 million.
On the other hand, Dr. Mwaura insisted that Educational investments such as the construction of an Engineering and TVET complex at Masinde Muliro reflect the government’s dedication to improving access to quality education.
While Government efforts to conserve the national environment through tree planting initiatives at Kakamega Forest and the use of resources to boost the western tourism circuit are ongoing, the Government Spokesperson reiterated that significant cultural heritage sites like the Crying Stone and kakapel National Monument are promoted to attract more tourists.
Further, Dr. Mwaura stressed that the hosting of Madaraka Day celebrations in the county will enhance the region’s national profile and infrastructure, showcasing its culture and economic potential.
“Comprehensive strategies have been put in place to ensure the safety of all attendees, residents, and visitors, and emergency prevention, a management plan, and a traffic management plan have been developed to ensure minimal disruption,” he assured.
He at the same time maintained that the country’s economy and GDP have grown, attributing them to a rebound in the agriculture sector.
Meanwhile, Dr. Mwaura mentioned that the government is committed to supporting the offices of the retired presidents and the state officers in accordance with the laws which demand that former presidents should receive pensions and other retired benefits after leaving office.
On the recent state visit to the United States (US) by the President, the Government Spokesperson highlighted that the president’s visit had led to several benefits and partnerships with Kenya, including increased investment in economic growth and trade, health (Sh 910 billion), agriculture (Sh 39 billion), education (Sh 58.5 billion), security (Sh 130 billion), governance and rule of law (Sh 26 billion), and infrastructure and development (Sh 195 billion).
Under the flooding emergency, Dr. Mwaura reported that 315 Kenyans have lost their lives as 306, 522 Kenyans drawn from 61,304 households are still affected by floods, 58,641 households comprising of about 293,205 people have been displaced, 38 people have been reported missing, and 188 people are injured and receiving treatment in various facilities.
Despite the challenges occasioned by recent flooding, Dr. Mwaura lauded the government’s prompt response and recovery efforts to safeguard the welfare of Kenyans.
By Sharon Atieno and Michael Omondi
