President William Ruto has outlined a multi-sector development plan aimed at transforming livelihoods in Kirinyaga County, with agriculture taking centre stage.
“We are transforming our nation through projects and programmes that improve the lives of our citizens,” Ruto said, noting that farmers in the county are already benefiting from targeted support in key value chains such as coffee, tea, avocado, and dairy.
To further strengthen the dairy sector, the President announced that the government will deliver 13 milk coolers next month. “We will deliver 13 milk coolers to the county as part of our goal to preserve raw milk quality, reduce spoilage and boost farmers’ incomes,” he stated.
Housing and Markets: Expanding Economic Opportunities
The government has also made significant investments in housing and trade infrastructure within the county. According to the President, KSh15 billion has been injected into the construction of 4,000 affordable housing units, with projects in Gichugu and Kirinyaga already complete and ready for handover.
In addition, KSh1.5 billion has been allocated for the construction of 12 modern markets aimed at improving trading conditions for small-scale traders. “Three are complete, while hostels to accommodate 4,000 university and college students are under construction. These projects are creating jobs for our youth,” Ruto said.
The projects are expected to not only enhance business environments but also stimulate local economies through job creation and increased commercial activity.
Healthcare: Strengthening Local Services
Healthcare is another key pillar of the development agenda. The President revealed that the government is equipping health facilities across Kirinyaga with medical equipment worth KSh330 million to improve service delivery.
“In Mwea, we will establish a KEMRI research centre, and KSh200 million has been allocated to build a Level 4 hospital in the constituency,” he added.
These investments are aimed at expanding access to quality healthcare services while positioning the region as a hub for medical research and innovation.
Infrastructure and Electrification
Infrastructure development is also a major focus, with the government prioritising electricity access and road networks. So far, 19,000 households in the county have been connected to electricity, with plans to connect an additional 9,500 homes in the next financial year.
On roads, the President said KSh6 billion has been allocated to complete key infrastructure projects, a move expected to enhance mobility, reduce transport costs, and improve access to markets and essential services.
Coordinating Development at the Grassroots
The President made the remarks after meeting grassroots leaders from Kirinyaga at State House, Nairobi, where they reviewed ongoing projects and aligned development priorities.
“We are transforming our nation through projects and programmes that improve the lives of our citizens,” Ruto reiterated, emphasizing the government’s commitment to inclusive development driven by local needs.
