By Maroa Enock (PCO) 

The transformation of Thika into a city is far more than a statutory process; it is a powerful reflection of Kiambu’s growth, ambition, and visionary leadership.

The vision has steadily evolved into a tangible reality, shaped by thoughtful planning, deliberate action, and an unwavering commitment to build a modern, inclusive, and sustainable urban centre that mirrors the hopes of its people.

Kiambu leadership at the office of the Senate Speaker on the day the process of Thika becoming an Industrial Smart City began at the Senate

A defining momentous came in 2023 under the leadership of H.E. Governor Dr. Kimani Wamatangi. Upon assuming office, his administration placed structured urban growth and sustainable planning at the heart of Kiambu’s development agenda. That same year, the County Executive Committee approved a sessional paper proposing the upgrading of Thika Municipality to city status, a bold and visionary step toward realizing Kiambu’s long-term goal of orderly, urban transformation.

Governor Wamatangi has consistently emphasized that the elevation of Thika is not merely an administrative process, but a people-driven transformation designed to expand opportunities, improve livelihoods, and enhance the quality of life for residents.

“The elevation of Thika to city status is a people-centered process rooted in planning, service delivery, and economic empowerment. We are building a city that works for everyone, from investors and traders to families who call Thika home,” said Governor Wamatangi during the launch of the public participation phase.

Governor Kimani Wamatangi addressing participants on the opening day of public participation on the proposed thika upgrade to city status

To achieve this vision, the County Government is working closely with national agencies such as the State Department for Housing and Urban Development under the Second Kenya Informal Settlement Improvement Project (KISIP 2), as well as KeNHA, KeRRA, and KURA, to modernize road networks, drainage systems, and street lighting across Thika.

“These coordinated investments will ease traffic congestion, improve mobility, and enhance safety — setting the foundation for a truly modern city,” the Governor noted.

According to the Acting County Executive Committee Member for Lands, Housing, Physical Planning, Municipal Administration, and Urban Development, Ms. Susan Gatwiri, Thika’s readiness for city status is anchored on strong planning frameworks and institutional collaboration.

“Through the Integrated Strategic Urban Development Plan (ISUDP) and ongoing infrastructure upgrades, Thika has demonstrated its capacity to meet and sustain city standards. Our vision is to build a clean, organized, and resilient city that reflects Kiambu’s aspirations for sustainable urban growth,” said CECM Gatwiri.

Thika Municipal Manager, Ms. Margaret Nyachania, echoed her sentiments, noting that the town’s transformation over recent years has been remarkable.

“From infrastructure improvements to enhanced service delivery, Thika is ready to take its place among Kenya’s leading cities,” she said, adding that Thika is well-positioned to become Kenya’s sixth city, a vibrant, well-planned urban hub that reflects Kiambu’s progressive vision for sustainable development.

Wayne Harvey Cook, Managing Director of Del Monte Kenya Ltd gives his views on Thika Industrial Smart City

Thika’s transformation journey has attracted national recognition. The Town and County Planners Association of Kenya (TCPAK) last year honoured Governor Kimani Wamatangi with the prestigious County and Town Excellence (CTE) Award 2025 in the Land and Building Development category.

Presented during the TCPAK Smart City Forum at Two Rivers Mall, the award recognized Governor Wamatangi’s firm policies promoting sustainable and controlled urban development principles that have shaped Kiambu’s progressive growth trajectory.

“Your Excellency, we recognize and applaud your outstanding leadership, and that of the Kiambu County Government, in promoting sustainable and controlled land use and building development across the county. We are therefore pleased to award you and the County Government of Kiambu the County and Town Excellence (CTE) Award 2025,” the organizers stated.

Governor Wamatangi’s approach to planning has emphasized evidence-based decision-making, enforcement of zoning regulations, and the protection of public spaces. These measures have curbed haphazard construction while fostering investor confidence and environmental stewardship.

The award was received on his behalf by CECM Gatwiri, who reaffirmed the county’s commitment to balanced urbanization and smart city principles.

Waziri Susan Gatwiri lifts the Town and County Planners Association of Kenya (TCPAK) Award

As the Senate prepares to visit Thika for public participation, collection of memorandums, and an on-the-ground assessment of the municipality’s preparedness for city status, anticipation is steadily building. Residents, business community, and investors believe that Thika’s elevation to city status will usher in a new era of accelerated growth, expanded investment opportunities, and improved infrastructure across Kiambu County and the wider Mt. Kenya region.

The visit will inform the Senate’s retreat, during which members are expected to deliberate and draft the final report on Thika’s city status application.

With Thika’s expanding infrastructure, vibrant industry, and growing population, Thika stands poised to become Kenya’s sixth city, a shining model of well-planned, inclusive, and sustainable urban transformation.

Thika’s transformation is more than an urban upgrade; it is a collective journey of growth, resilience, and shared ambition. It stands as a beacon of what Kiambu County envisions: a future where progress is people-driven, sustainable, and inclusive.

Appointed Adhoc committee with Governor Wamatangi after receiving their appointment letters