Residents across Kitui County are expressing gratitude following a series of development projects commissioned by Governor Dr. Julius Malombe, with many describing the initiatives as life-changing interventions that are improving livelihoods and restoring hope in communities.
The county government has intensified efforts to address water shortages through the completion of several major water projects targeting households, schools, markets and public institutions. Communities that have struggled with access to clean water are now experiencing relief through reliable water supply systems.
In Wii, the Catholic Borehole Water Supply Project has become a major source of clean water for residents and institutions. The project serves five water kiosks, Wii Primary School, Wii Secondary School, Kyandui Primary School, Wii Market and households within an estimated five-square-kilometre radius. Residents say the project has significantly reduced the burden of travelling long distances in search of water.
Further development was witnessed in Mulango where the Yambuu Sumpwell Water Supply Scheme was commissioned. The project abstracts 15 cubic metres of water per hour and supplies water to kiosks at Kyumoni, Kathungi Market and Mithongo, with enough capacity to support approximately 120 households in the area.
Communities in Voo/Kyamatu Ward are also celebrating the commissioning of the Kaluasi Borehole, a project expected to benefit about 1,100 people and 2,350 livestock. In Mbitini, residents welcomed the launch of the Kwa Nganya solar-powered borehole that is set to serve an estimated 350 households through water kiosks located at Kwa Nganya, Kwa Mwendwa, Kwa Pastor Reuben and Isovya Primary School.
The county government has also continued strengthening healthcare services through the expansion and improvement of health facilities. Residents have welcomed the new developments, saying they will reduce the need to travel long distances to seek quality medical services.
At Kyandui Dispensary, a new outpatient block has been commissioned to improve access to healthcare. Kyangunga Health Centre also received an inpatient block, a maternity unit and a staff house aimed at enhancing service delivery and improving working conditions for healthcare personnel.
Additional upgrades were undertaken at Kyamatu Dispensary where a new outpatient block and laboratory were completed. Mbitini Health Centre also benefited from a renovated maternity wing and a newly commissioned outpatient block expected to improve maternal and general healthcare services.
Economic growth has also received a boost through investments in markets and road infrastructure. Traders in Wii now have access to a Twin Market Shed that offers a better trading environment, while the Thaana Nzau open-air market in Kyome/Thaana Ward was commissioned to support local business activities. The completion of the 150-metre Thua drift and Kithyoko drift roads is expected to improve transport, ease movement and stimulate local economic activities.
Governor Malombe has also continued investing in young people through digital empowerment and mentorship programmes. A total of 160 youth from all the 40 wards graduated from the Kitui County Youth Mentorship and Digital Skills Programme, with the governor encouraging them to embrace innovation and entrepreneurship.
He challenged them to think beyond employment opportunities, urging them to become creators, innovators and job creators. With continued investments in Wi-Fi connectivity in vocational centres and the Kanyongonyo Digital Community Centre, residents say Governor Malombeโs hands-on leadership has left a lasting impact that many believe will be remembered beyond 2027.
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