Homa Bay county is set to benefit from a Sh 1.4 billion World Bank funded informal settlement improvement project.
Governor Gladys Wanga said that the project will change the face of informal settlements in the devolved unit.
She said the county was fortunate to be among a few selected counties that will benefit from the programme dubbed Informal Settlement Improvement Programme (KISIP).
The Governor said the project will create employment for the youths who will be engaged to clean their localities.
Speaking when she launched the project on Thursday, Wanga said areas that will benefit are Sophia, Makongeni and Shauri Yako in Homa Bay town, A Thousand Street in Oyugis Town, Kendu Bay Old town, Rusinga Island and Nyandiwa.
She said at least 600 youths from each of the areas will be picked to do different tasks that will change the face of the informal settlements.
“Part of the work involves unblocking drainage systems. Youth will also clean streets and collect garbage,” she said.
Ms Wanga said the first component of the project will involve improvement of roads and other infrastructure.
“Another Sh 27 million will be used to install solar Street lights in the areas,” Ms Wanga said.
She witnessed the groundbreaking of the installation work of a solar street light at Soko Mjinga market in Shauri Yako of Homa Bay town.
“Youths who will be involved in the work will be paid to uplift their lives. The money paid to youths will circulate within the county,” Ms Wanga said.
She said the programme is community driven and public participation will be encouraged.
“Other socioeconomic challenges including poverty levels, will be addressed with the full implementation of the programme,” Ms Wanga said.
The Governor said the project will also conserve the environment and spur socioeconomic development.
By Davis Langat
