County Continues Working on Markets

By Njeri Karu

The County Government of Kiambu Department of Trade, Industrialization, Tourism and Investments handed over construction sites at Gakoe and Mataara markets in Gatundu North Sub-County, Kamangu market in Kikuyu Sub-County, and Karuri Market in Kiambaa Sub-County on 26^th March 2025.

This signaled the commencement of construction of critical infrastructure for business and entrepreneurship, and also the creation of thousands of employment opportunities. The new markets and infrastructure would align with the department’s vision and the Governor’s manifesto to enhance trading conditions and support local businesses.

Mataara Market

The state-of-the-art modern markets would individually accommodate over 300 traders and offer a range of amenities that include stalls, nursing rooms, ICT hubs, and cold storage rooms, among others.

“We look forward to seeing this projects come to life and the impact they will have on our local economy. These traders have for years been affected by weather elements while carrying out their businesses but that will soon be a thing of the past.”

“We will provide a temporary location where they will operate their businesses while awaiting the completion of the new markets,” said CECM Trade Susan Gatwiri during the site handover at Gakoe market.

In addition, the department conducted site visits at Ruaka market in Kiambaa Sub-County, Kimende market in Lari Sub-County, Rironi market in Lari Sub-County, Juja farm market in Juja Sub-County, Githiga, Karia and Kigumo markets in Githunguri Sub-County, Kiandutu market in Thika Sub-County, Kiganjo and Gitwe markets in Gatundu South Sub-County with the aim of informing contractors on the scope of the projects and enabling them to take note of salient features that will inform their bidding.

Road Rehabilitation Kicks Off After Stockpiling of Materials

By Marion Kanari

The Directorate of Roads in Kiambu County has embarked on a massive initiative to sustain rural road rehabilitation and maintenance.

At the Rujwasco County quarry in Gatong’ora Ward, Ruiru, the Directorate is harvesting 4,000 tonnes of hardcore chip material to support the program.

So far, 130 tonnes of hardcore chips have been produced through the excavation and crushing of rock boulders, aiming to rehabilitate access roads across all wards in the county during this financial year.

Rujwasco County Quarry in Gatong’ora Ward, Ruiru County

This initiative seeks to ensure regular and timely maintenance of roads while significantly reducing the costs associated with purchasing materials. To date, 725 kilometres of access roads have been gravelled, and 1,687 kilometres have been graded across the 60 wards.

To enhance the durability of the roads, comprehensive drainage solutions are being implemented. These include culvert installations, stone pitching and gabion works in areas prone to perennial flooding.

Key projects include the installation of 900mm twin culverts at OJ-BTL and Sweetwaters Membley in Gitothua Ward. Similar underground drainage systems will be constructed in Kabete, Nyathuna and Kihara, with particular focus on Kanungu.

Roads Chief Officer, Edmund Njihia, emphasised that these efforts aim to mitigate flooding risks and prevent the deterioration of access roads, ensuring their longevity and improved usability for the community.

“We are focused on making all the roads in Kiambu motorable and the first step we have taken is to stockpile the materials before the works begin. The road works will be carried out simultaneously throughout all the wards,” said Njihia.

According to the Chief Officer, other drainage works will be conducted at Mugumo estate and Machiri Primary School in Ting’ang’a Ward and at Township ward Kiamumbi and Thindigua.

Governor Kimani Wamatangi drives a truck full of hardcore chips at the Rujwasco County quarry in Gatong’ora Ward, Ruiru Sub-County

As part of the sustained efforts to improve access, construction of bridges to connect various ridges is ongoing in various wards with Mariguiti motorable bridge in Kiganjo at 90 percent complete which will effectively connect Mariguiti to Gituamba ridges in Gatundu South, Muimia Bridge in Githiga ward is also ongoing at 50 percent while works are at 50 percent in Kabuteti.

Work is also expected to start at Kiruiru bridge in Nyathuna, Gaitete – Mungeere in Kirangi across Ruabura river Ndarugo ward and Maria ini area in Gituamba.

“The directorate is committed to improve accessibility throughout the County and ensure sustained rehabilitation and maintenance of County transport infrastructure,” says Njihia.

The excavation and crushing of rock boulders to rehabilitate access roads across all wards in the Kiambu County

Rehabilitation of feeder roads also continues throughout the County through grading and gravelling of existing and new roads.

Completed road works for the FY2024/25 is as below.

Development of Roads in Kiambu County

Kiambu Bursary Kitty Grows to Half a Billion, Benefitting Thousands of Vulnerable Households

By Ann Karanja

For years, vulnerable children in Kiambu County have had to overcome insurmountable challenges in the quest for an education.

However, their plight has significantly changed since the reins of power, in the populous county, were taken over by Governor Kimani Wamatangi administration.

Under the new leadership, the kitty for education bursaries targeting the vulnerable has been increased from KES. 100 million to KES. 500 million.

This development has seen the number of beneficiaries grow in multiples across the 60 wards of Kiambu County, and the amount increased to at least KES. 5,000 for every beneficiary.

In addition, the bursaries are domiciled in the Directorate of Social Services which empowers persons with disabilities (PWDs) giving them priority in the allocation process.

The vision of Governor Wamatangi’s administration is to see that no child is left behind because of financial constraints, which aligns with the United Nations (UN) mandate, and also as contained in his 2022 Campaign Manifesto.

Governor Wamatangi, who grew in a humble background, appreciates that education is the ultimate equalizer, and believes all children must be given a fair chance to get an education.

BURSARY ISSUANCE IN KIAMBU COUNTY

Past mid-March 2025, the bursary exercise had covered 52 wards and benefitted more than 14,000 students from different backgrounds.

“My administration is giving bursary cheques of the least amount, KES. 5,000 for every beneficiary, and are distributed five times in a year. We also have a system for bursary issuance that ensures fairness and equality for all,” said Governor Wamatangi.

In the past, parents queued for hours, struggling to get bursary cheques, which were most times elusive, and those who managed received negligible amounts.

In addition to the general bursaries, the Governor Wamatangi administration provides special full scholarships to students in the most vulnerable conditions. These students, often orphans or from extremely dire conditions receive comprehensive financial support to ensure their educational journey is uninterrupted.

This bursary issuance underscores the Governor’s commitment to building an inclusive and equitable society where education is accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status.

“Education is the key to unlocking a brighter future for our county and our nation. Our responsibility is to ensure that every child, no matter their background, has the opportunity to realize their full potential. These bursaries are a step towards making that vision a reality,” said Governor Wamatangi during a bursary issuance exercise.

Chief Officer Vocational Training, Gender & Social Services, Ms Emily Nkoroi has continuously expressed her commitment to ensuring that social status does not hinder students from chasing after their dreams.

Parents and students have expressed their gratitude for the timely support noting that it is a true reflection of leadership that listens and acts in the best interest of her people.

BURSARY ISSUANCE IN KIAMBU COUNTY

With the bursary exercise continuing to roll out in the remaining eight (8) wards, it is expected that even more students will benefit, securing educational opportunities for thousands.

Thika Hosts Kenya Open Karate Championship, Paving the Way to Abuja

BY DUNCAN OJIJO

Thika continues to attract key sports events in the country, positioning the town, in the quest of becoming the sixth (6^th) city in Kenya.

The town hosted the Kenya Open Karate Championship on the third weekend of March, ending 16^th March 2025 at the Salvation Army Kenya East Territorial Hall.

The intense three-day competition themed “Legends Are Made on the Road to Abuja,” brought together elite karate athletes from across the country.

The athletes were competing to represent Kenya at the upcoming African Championships in Abuja, Nigeria, scheduled for July 22–27, 2025.

The competition, sponsored by the Directorate of Sports-Kiambu County, in collaboration with other partners, was a crucial platform for identifying, defining, and refining talent ahead of the continental tournament.

The organisers and trainers noted that the competing athletes exemplified remarkable skill, discipline, and perseverance in pursuit of medals, trophies, and, a place on the national team.

Thika Hosts Kenya Open Karate Championship Where Athletes to Represent Kenya in the Africa Championship in Abuja, Nigeria, will be Selected

Six scouts were in charge of the selection process that involved identification of four prospects per weight category.

In addition to sponsoring the event, the Directorate of Sports contributed trophies and refreshments towards the success of the event.

The Director of Sports in the County Catherine Nduati, and other Karate officials, presided over the award ceremony. The officials commended the athletes for their dedication and exemplary sportsmanship.

“You have shown incredible dedication, discipline, and passion for the sport. I know it is hard work that has brought you this far, and we are confident that you will make Kenya proud in Abuja,” said Director Nduati.

Following the performance of the athletes at the Thika event, a strong performance is expected at the Africa Championship in Abuja, Nigeria.

Thousands of Solar Lights Brighten Life in Kiambu County

BY ANNEGRACE NJOKI

Kiambu governor Kimani Wamatangi has operationalised the solarization streetlighting in efforts to cut the huge power bills that have jeopardised the county’s development.

The County spends over a billion shillings on power bills annually, and the adoption of renewable energy is a strategic move, which will offer a massive relief to the county funds.

The move has also brightened the life of the residents who boast of enhanced security, increased business hours, and because of the deliberate attempt to cut the funding towards lighting.

The KES 400 million solar project, actualized in three phases, will include the solarization of the street lights across the county, and/or transitioning county-run hospitals from the national grid to solar, and also county offices.

“The residents of Kiambu have reported enhanced security, and extended business hours because of the solar lights. The non-reliance on the grid also rids the wards from constant blackouts, says Governor Wamatangi.

Governor Kimani Wamatangi Solar streetlighting in Kiambu Municipality

The street lighting program dubbed Angaza Kiambu will save county funds through a low maintenance cost, and their dependency on the naturally available sun and light. The solar lights are also more durable.

“The solar project aligns with the SDG 7 on affordable and clean energy,” said Governor Wamatangi. He was optimistic that Kiambu County could be the first in the region to go green, which was a measurable action towards climate change mitigation.

Solar streetlighting Kiambu Municipality

County Climate Change Director Ms. Esther Kaguima noted that the project was strategic in efforts to reduce carbon emissions across the globe.

The first phase included the installation and launch in Limuru, Githunguri, Juja, Ruiru, and Kiambu sub-counties. The residents lauded the county’s efforts to improve the business environment and also enhance security.

Peter Wakaba from Juja, Malaba area, said that the solar lights would help keep at bay wild animals, like the hyenas, which roamed the wards especially when darkness fell.

“It has been unsafe walking and working in the dark, particularly with the hyenas roaming around. This solar initiative is enhancing security and we can now extend our business hours,” he added.

Utilities Chief Officer Ms. Virginia Kahonge added that the project would enhance efficiency as the constant disruptions on the national grid due to owed bills would reduce. “While we are gradually moving towards solar energy, the power cuts due to unsustainable power bills will be a thing of the past,” she noted.

DIALYSIS MACHINES: Governor Wamatangi Administration Multiplies Opportunities for Cleaning Your Blood

BY KELVIN KIMARU

In yet another breakthrough for healthcare in Kiambu County, Governor Kimani Wamatangi’s administration has expanded dialysis services at Thika Level V Hospital by procuring five new dialysis machines.

This acquisition highlights the Governor’s commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure and ensuring that patients battling kidney disease receive timely and quality treatment.

For years, the facility has served as a referral center for dialysis patients, often struggling with limited equipment. The new machines are expected to ease congestion, reduce wait times, and accommodate more patients from Kiambu and neighboring counties.

Speaking to our team, a beneficiary undergoing dialysis expressed relief at the improvements.

“Before, we had to wait long hours, and sometimes even miss sessions due to the high number of patients. But now, things are much better. The new machines have helped us,” she said.

According to Nephrology Nurse Joyce Mwangi the upgrade has significantly improved efficiency in service delivery.

“With the new machines, we have reduced patient wait times and can now handle more cases daily. This is a big step towards improving renal care in the county,” she stated.

Despite this progress, the demand for dialysis services remains high, with patients traveling from neighboring counties; Nairobi, Muranga, Machakos, and Kirinyaga to seek treatment at the facility.

Governor Wamatangi’s administration has prioritized healthcare as a key pillar of development, and this latest investment in dialysis services is yet another demonstration of his dedication to improving the lives of Kiambu residents.

Transforming Kikuyu through #AngazaKiambu Solar Streetlighting

By Marion Kanari

Senior Public Communications Officer

As the world embraces renewable energy to save the planet from the effects of climate change, Kiambu County is not left behind.

One of the county’s key flagship projects is the adoption of solar energy, a significant shift in operations geared towards sustainability on all fronts.

The Department of Public Works and Utilities has rolled out phase one of the ambitious #AngazaKiambu program, which involves installing over 60 solar streetlights per ward in the 12 Sub Counties totaling 4,000.

Solar streetlighting in Kikuyu under the Governor Kimani Wamatangi administration

On this second week of February 2025, Governor Kimani Wamatangi led the launching of solar streetlights in the five wards of Kikuyu Municipality, where he noted that phase two and three of the program would be launched in March and May 2025 respectively.

The Governor Kimani Wamatangi administration will have installed 10,000 solar streetlights in the three phases of the Angaza Kiambu Program.

“We have phased out the installation of the solar streetlights to strategically light up as many areas as possible,” said Governor Wamatangi.

While reiterating Governor Wamatangi’s sentiments, local MCAs hailed the program citing improved security and ease of doing business for the residents.

Chief Officer Public Works & Utilities Virginia Kahonge noted that installation works had been completed in seven (7) municipalities, and phase one would be completed by mid-March 2025.

Solar streetlighting in Kikuyu under the Governor Kimani Wamatangi administration

The lights installed along critical areas as guided by area residents are distributed as follows in Kikuyu Municipality:

Karai Ward;-

Rio Nderi Kagiria Rd
Muhuri road
Thiru Njiwa Rd

Nachu Ward;-

Shell Petrol Station – Nachu Primary School Rd
Kianjage Rd
Kiagatta Past Lusigetti hospital
Lenguti High School Kanyayo
Jambu TV area

Sigona Ward

Gikira access Rd
Gachuti Rd
Wega Banda Homes
Gitau Thamanda Rd

Kinoo Ward

Kangoro Rd
Kinoo PCEA area
Kariango area

Kikuyu Ward

Kidfarmaco highland
Link Rd
Thogoto Ndaire Rd
Kianda Kia Reli
St Teresa

The Solar streetlights, which are county-specific and custom-made have improved lighting and enhanced safety, require minimal and less frequent maintenance in comparison to the grid-connected lights, have a reduced carbon footprint, and use solar energy.

The public funds saved from the paying high power bills would be channeled to development projects, and other critical areas of the County to spur economic development.

County Assembly Majority Leader MCA Godfrey Muceke lauded the #AngazaKiambu initiative as one of a kind saying the administration had outdone previous governments in the implementation of impactful projects.

The County’s shift to clean energy was necessitated by unsustainable power and maintenance bills for the existing 20,428 grid-connected lights, boreholes, hospitals, county premises, and other operations.

The County has an annual estimated power bill of over KES. 1.4B which stems from its 120 hospitals, 19,000 Streetlights, County offices and fire stations.

Under the directive by Governor Wamatangi, community boreholes are also being solarized, and BQs for new county buildings now require solar lighting.

Solar streetlighting in Kikuyu under the Governor Kimani Wamatangi administration

Transformational Initiatives Touching the Vulnerable in Kiambu

The County’s Division of Vocational Training, Gender & Social Services has made significant strides in improving access to education and making the daily life of the vulnerable in the community comfortable.

The Division has been at the forefront when people in Kiambu County suffer tragedies, including fire tragedies, empowering hundreds of those with disabilities, and also children whose education is threatened by the lack of school fees.

EDUCATION BURSARIES ISSUED

The Division has worked tirelessly to ensure that students with financial constraints have the opportunity to pursue their studies without the burden of school fees which aligns with Governor Kimani Wamatangi’s clarion call of #LeaveNoChildBehind.

In the financial year 2024/25, approximately 18,000 students in the County have benefitted from the education bursaries giving the children and their families hope for a better future.

Governor Kimani Wamatangi issues education bursaries to the needs at the ward level

SANITARY TOWELS PROVISION

The Division also incorporated the provision of sanitary towels to ensure the girl-child attends a full school term ensuring quality education for all.

The program promotes dignity, and hygiene and develops the confidence of thousands of pupils and students throughout the month. The Division has noted a reduction in absenteeism among the female population in schools.

Mary Njeri, a student at Nyacaba Secondary School, Witeithie Ward, expressed her gratitude for this initiative commending the Department for the efforts in ensuring that there was no period shame.

Distribution of sanitary towels for schools, promoting dignity and a full-school term

PERSONAL EFFECTS FOR PWDs

The Division observed a high demand for diapers in families caring for their loved ones who were disabled.

With the vicious cycle of financial strain, and heightened needs caring for PWDs, the Division operationalized the distribution of diapers to cushion families and ensure dignity and comfort for all in society.

Hundreds of households receive the diapers with a smile on their faces. The Division is also engaged in collaborations and partnerships for the provision of assistive devices for those with disabilities.

FIRE DISASTER VICTIMS

The Division has also mobilized resources that assist fire victims following a surge in fire incidences in Kiambu County. The victims have received mattresses, blankets and food hampers providing immediate relief for individuals and families.

Fire victims assisted by the County Government of Kiambu

LOCAL PRODUCTION

Under the Division, Vocational Training Centers have constructed cabro sheds and equipped them with cabro making machines that enable trainees gain cabro making skills, resulting to socio-economic empowerment, and also the beautification of public spaces.

The Division has made a lasting impact on the lives of the people of Kiambu County through projects geared towards social welfare and community well-being.

New Medical Equipment Will Save Thousands of Lives

The County Government of Kiambu started the year 2025 on a high crescendo in health by launching new medical equipment.

During an event held at the Kiambu HQ on 10th January 2025, Governor Kimani Wamatangi launched the equipment, which included endoscopy, digital x-ray, and dialysis machines.

State-of-the-art medical equipment, Kiambu County

The machines would devolve quality health and better patient care to the grassroots, transforming health in villages of Kiambu where some hospitals have never been installed with such state-of-the-art machines.

Some hospitals that would benefit include Kiambu Level V, Gatundu Level V, Thika Level V, Lari Level IV, and Lussigette Level IV hospitals.

For the first time, Kiambu Level V Hospital would have an endoscopy machine enabling doctors to perform non-intrusive medical procedures using cameras for the overall safety and well-being of thousands of patients, and also reduce the need to travel abroad for such specialized services.

The launch was also attended by Deputy Governor Rosemary Kirika, Members of the County Assembly led by Deputy Speaker John Njiru, CECM Health Dr. Elias Maina, county officials, municipal managers, members of the public, health care workers, and partners from the medical field.

“The dialysis machines and the rest of the machines are the best gifts you can give the people of Kiambu in this New Year,” said Dr. Maina.

MCA Njiru urged the people to desist from playing politics with matters of health as he appreciated the equipping of hospitals with the equipment.

In his speech, Governor Wamatangi assured of rapid action to continue improving health in the county including installation of a CT-Scan machine at the Kiambu Level V Hospital.

Governor Kimani Wamatangi digital xray machines at Kiambu HQ

Governor Wamatangi launches the digital xray machines at Kiambu HQ

“We have plans to install a CT-Scan machine here at the Kiambu hospital in a few months, and also replace the CT-Scan machine in Thika because of the condition of the machine, old and depleted,” said Governor Wamatangi.

In addition, the Governor enumerated the growth in the number of hospitals through the establishment of new facilities, rehabilitation of the existing ones, and reviving the stalled hospitals.

Other successes included payment of the one billion KEMSA bill that the county owed before the new administration came into office, operationalization of ambulances, and ensuring at least 85% stock of pharmaceuticals and medicines in health facilities.

In the first phase, equipment worth KES. 500 million were delivered to county hospitals including x-ray machines, dental equipment, ultrasound machines, and other assorted equipment.