The residents of Ithanga Kakuzi sub-county have been urged to continue supporting the government’s development agenda in the area, as it is committed to improving their livelihoods.
Marked as one of Murang’a’s semi-arid regions, the residents have for years grappled with a grave scarcity of water both for domestic use and the sustainability of agricultural activities.
In light of this, the Sh3.5 billion water project by the GOK under the implementation of the Athi water works Development agency (AWWDA) is underway and has already benefitted over 2,000 households, with the remaining 7,000 households set to be connected by August.
Speaking during the NGAAF economic empowerment forum at Kirathani Shopping Centre, Ithanga, Murang’a County Woman representative Betty Maina urged the residents to support the government’s development agenda by being good stewards of the infrastructure being set up in the area.
“We need to speak with one voice, as the implementation of the agendas by the state is for our benefit as the taxpayers and dwellers of this region and we cannot continue to sabotage the efforts being made for our empowerment,” she said.
Maina emphasised that the region ought to be united by shunning divisive politics, as it was still premature to engage in politics, noting that it was time for delivering the election promises to the people.
She also urged the residents to take advantage of the ongoing long rains by planting fast-maturing crops that are suitable in the area and can withstand periods of dry spells.
“There are crops that are certainly going to do well in this region despite the heat and long periods of dry spells, so ensure that you plant them timely as we continue to receive above-minimum rains,” she said.
Jubilee-nominated Member of parliament, Sabina Chege on her part, implored elected leaders in the region to prioritize delivering their election mandate to the electorate instead of embarking on 2027 campaigns prematurely.
She also assured the residents that the government will fulfil the promises made during the just-concluded presidential tour to the region.
“A Sh1.2 billion rural electrification programme is set to begin in the next financial year to ensure all homes in this region are connected to the national grid, and this will improve our lives significantly both economically and socially,” she said, urging residents to shun divisions along regional lines and rally behind the government of the day as it delivers its agenda.
The area MCA, Alex Ndunda, called on the government to fast-track the development projects in the area, particularly rural electrification and rehabilitation of the faulty existing transformers.
“Having electricity in this area will improve the living conditions of the people while opening up economic opportunities, ultimately contributing to social and economic development,” he said.
During the event, 8 registered social groups received Sh800,000 to boost their projects, while 5 institutions received 5,000-litre water tanks each to help with water conservation.
Similarly, 5 groups received beehives to help kickstart their apiculture venture.
Additionally, 800 elderly men and women received a blanket each, with all the attendees present receiving food essentials.
By Florence Kinyua
