Kitui County has implemented 1,669 development projects valued at Ksh. 9.645 billion since August 2022, Governor Julius Malombe has announced.
Speaking during his executive’s midterm review session held in Mombasa on Friday, Governor Malombe outlined the administration’s achievements across various sectors aimed at improving livelihoods for Kitui residents.
In the agricultural sector, the Governor revealed that over 527,000 farmers have been trained and 51,511 youth engaged in agribusiness. He cited the ongoing Kitui County Agricultural Investment Programme (K-CAIP) and efforts to add value to local produce as key drivers of rural transformation. He, however, emphasized the need to recruit 128 agricultural extension officers to enhance productivity and support farmers at the grassroots.
Addressing the water sector, Malombe clarified that Kitui’s challenge lies in water accessibility rather than scarcity. He reported the successful construction of 115 solar-powered boreholes and 250 sand dams, benefitting more than 150,000 residents. Plans are underway to improve water catchment protection and expand supply to more remote areas.
On health, the Governor said Kitui County Referral Hospital now offers specialized services including an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and Cancer Centre. Nonetheless, he acknowledged gaps in diagnostic equipment and medical staffing, with the county planning to hire 226 health workers and partner with institutions to acquire modern medical equipment.
In the education sector, Malombe reported that 1,688 Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) teachers have been converted to permanent terms. Additionally, more than 14,000 learners have received new furniture. He noted ongoing improvements in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) centers, although more infrastructure and facility upgrades are needed.
The Governor also highlighted progress in urban development, with 1,100 street lights installed and key roads tarmacked. He announced upcoming investments in fire engines and solid-waste management machinery to enhance urban service delivery.
Other notable achievements include:
- Construction of the Kitui County Aggregation and Industrial Park.
- Launch of the Kitui Tourism Circuit to promote local attractions.
- Construction of four new police stations to boost security.
- Grading of over 5,000 kilometers of road.
- Training of 400 boda boda riders.
- Enforcement of the Sand Utilization and Conservation Act to ensure environmental sustainability.
Governor Malombe concluded by noting that the county is in the final stages of automating all revenue streams to enhance efficiency and boost revenue collection.
“This midterm review confirms our commitment to transforming Kitui County into a prosperous and inclusive region,” he said.
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