The Nakuru City Management is actively working towards implementing the Neighborhood Engagement Initiative by visiting various localities to gather views and address concerns raised by the residents.
On Tuesday the Management visited residents of Barut Ward, which is on the outskirts of the city, and engaged them in a one-on-one consultative forum to foster open communication and collaboration on the management of the city.
During the consultative forum, the management actively listened to the views and concerns expressed by the resident’s representatives. The approach allowed for a constructive dialogue, where both parties suggested ideas and pondered on solutions.
The City Manager, Gitau Thabanja disclosed that Governor Susan Kihika has endeavored to build strong relationships and foster a sense of ownership and dignity within the communities of the county
Thabanja called upon the residents to establish a community-level project committee to responsibly oversee the implementation of plans at the communal level. He added that when people actively participate in local activities and collaborate on local ventures, it fosters a sense of togetherness and solidarity.
Emphasizing the importance of neighborhood engagement, the city manager said such initiatives provide a platform for residents to identify and address local issues and challenges. And, by coming together, communities can find solutions to problems like crime, health, and environmental concerns, such as climate change.
Apart from that, he said neighborhood engagement initiatives empower residents to have a say in the county’s decision-making processes that affect their livelihoods, and such meetings lead to better development outcomes and a sense of ownership of the governance process.
Also, he noted that neighborhood engagements were important for disaster preparedness because organized communities can better coordinate their efforts to provide assistance and support faster in case of any problem.
The engagement session proved to be a valuable platform for the residents to voice their opinions and provide feedback on various issues affecting their neighborhood. The city management acknowledged the importance of incorporating the residents’ perspectives into the decision-making process, ensuring that the community’s needs and aspirations are adequately addressed.
Finally, he said active participation in neighborhood initiatives has the capacity of enhancing the overall well-being of residents by reducing stress, thus increasing a sense of purpose, and improving mental health.
By Veronica Bosibori
