On May 10, 2025 – In a comprehensive review presented to the people of kitui, this week, Governor Dr. Julius Malombe outlined sweeping developmental milestones achieved under his administration since August 2022, and unveiled a series of forward-looking initiatives aimed at transforming Kitui into a model county of inclusive, sustainable development.
From massive road upgrades, youth-focused apprenticeship programs, urban infrastructure improvements, and a renewed focus on trade and tourism, the Governor emphasized his government’s commitment to enhancing service delivery across all sectors.
Empowering Youth and Skills Development
A standout highlight was the scaling up of Kisomo na Kyo with 10,661 beneficiaries, anchored by an apprenticeship model and a revolving certification fund to ensure all trainees sit the NITA Grade III Trade Test at no cost. Digital literacy programs have been launched at 27 VTCs and a central ICT hub in Kanyonyoo, empowering youth to access online jobs and the gig economy. Over 1,400 youths have completed mentorship and attachments, while youth contractors and boda boda riders continue to benefit from safety and compliance training.
Urban Development and Infrastructure
Kitui’s urban transformation gained momentum with the installation of 1,103 street lights and tarmacking of key roads including the Tungutu–Ithookwe stretch. Cabro walkways are enhancing safety in Kitui and Mwingi towns. The Dustless Towns Programme is bearing fruit, while KUSP II will soon deliver new fire engines and waste machinery.
Economic Growth and Investment Zones
In a move to attract investors and streamline economic growth, the county has developed six Economic and Investment Zones (EIZs) and secured 1,500 acres for industrial development. The Kitui County Aggregation and Industrial Park (K-CAIP) at Kanyonyoo is already 40% complete. Despite challenges, such as the lack of an operational framework for EIZs and weak cooperative structures, the government is recasting the Kitui Vision for Economic and Social Transformation (KIVEST 2015–2035) to address these gaps. An International Investors Conference is planned for March 2026.
Tourism Circuit Launch Set
The much-anticipated Kitui Tourism Circuit will officially launch by Q1 of FY2025/26, spotlighting attractions like Nzambani Rock, Mutomo Reptile Park, and South Kitui and Mwingi Reserves. Strategic partnerships with national tourism bodies will help brand Kitui as a prime eco-tourism destination.
Transport Sector Overhaul
The county has opened and graded over 5,000 km of roads and installed over 5,600 m of concrete slabs to enhance all-weather access. New construction machinery has been acquired and 4,000 local contractors trained in partnership with the NCA. The boda boda sector has received a boost through training, first-aid certifications, and the erection of 41 modern sheds.
Environmental Protection and Sand Governance
A landmark achievement is the enactment of the Kitui County River Basins Sand Utilization and Conservation Act, 2024. To support its implementation, committees and community groups have been established to regulate sand harvesting and protect river ecosystems.
Security and Law Enforcement
The county has prioritized security in hotspot regions. New police stations have been completed in Ngomeni, with ongoing construction in Mutha, Nuu, Endau/Malalani, and Tseikuru. The administration is also working closely with national authorities to resolve the Tana River boundary dispute and tackle resource-based conflicts.
Finance and Accountability
Kitui’s Own Source Revenue has risen to Kshs. 636 million as of April 2025, up from Kshs. 361 million in FY2021/22. Automation of revenue collection is underway through CRMS, LIMS, and AfyaKe systems, with a real-time dashboard in development. Pending bills have declined significantly, now standing at Kshs. 829 million from Kshs. 1.43 billion in FY2022/23.
Way Forward
Governor Malombe affirmed the county’s commitment to transparency and results. A three-year performance scorecard will be published, and a real-time project-tracking dashboard rolled out. Future development will follow an EIZ-centric model, with stronger inter-ministerial collaboration and enhanced partnerships with the National Government and development partners.
“Kitui is on a transformative path. Together, we will build a county where opportunity, dignity, and prosperity are within reach for every citizen,” said Governor Malombe during the closing session.
The bold blueprint signals a new chapter for Kitui County, one rooted in evidence-based policy, economic empowerment, and sustainable growth.
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