Tharaka Nithi County Commissioner David Gitonga has assured area residents and visitors of adequate security during this festive season.
Speaking during Jamhuri Day celebrations at Kairuni grounds in Maara Sub-county, Gitonga cautioned those who might be tempted to engage in unlawful activities during the celebrations.
“We have ensured that security measures are tight and well-coordinated. Let us utilize the ‘Mulika Hualifu’ code 988 to report any suspicious activities,” he said.
The county commissioner took issue with local clubs operating within 300 meters of schools, stating that strict measures be taken against them.
Gitonga condemned retrogressive cultural practices such as FGM and child labour, vowing that those caught engaging in these activities will face severe consequences.
Present during the event was the County Deputy Governor Nyaga Muisraeli who hailed the unity between the county and national governments.
The Deputy Governor urged all elected leaders in the county to respect the residents, acknowledging that they are the ones who voted them into office.
Muisraeli expressed gratitude to the late President Mwai Kibaki for the constitution 2010, which has empowered leaders to serve the people diligently.
He highlighted the Chuka Referral Hospital as a significant achievement of the Tharaka Nithi County government, serving people from all corners of the country and the world at large.
He further asserted that the County Government is committed to continuing the fight against illicit brews, aimed at creating a sober society.
Also present was Maara MP Kareke Mbiuki who emphasized the significance of Jamhuri Day and the collaborative efforts of Tharaka Nithi County in improving the well-being of its residents in line with the vision of our freedom fighters.
The legislator acknowledged the existing challenges in infrastructure and water supply, promising to work with relevant authorities to address the twin problems.
Mbiuki assured residents that their concerns would be prioritized at both the national and county levels.
He emphasized the importance of developing infrastructure, particularly focusing on roads and water systems, which are critical for the county’s growth.
The MP revealed upcoming meetings with Principals Secretaries and Cabinet Secretaries in the relevant dockets to discuss and find lasting solutions to all challenges bedeviling the area.
Mbiuki touched on the importance of education and healthcare, advocating for improved facilities and services to ensure that all residents have access to quality education and medical care.
He praised efforts of local leaders and communities in working together to create a better environment for future generations.
Mbiuki encouraged residents to actively participate in development projects and community initiatives, highlighting the collective effort needed to drive progress in the county.
Nominated MCA Purity Wanja emphasized the importance of celebrating Kenya’s independence and the role of community meetings in driving development.
She encouraged residents to fight poverty through hard work and self-reliance, noting that the newly constructed markets are a testimony to the government’s support.
Wanja further called for unity among People with Disabilities, urging them to come together under one umbrella to better advocate for their needs.
By David Mutwiri and Christine Ngitori