Tharaka Nithi: Tharaka Nithi Governor, Muthomi Njuki today delivered the state of the county address, through which he explained his aim to transform the county’s economy and improve the quality of life for its residents.
According to Kenya News Agency, in the compelling address at the county headquarters at Kathwana, Njuki announced a remarkable increase in the county’s revenue, which has grown from Sh287 million to Sh417 million in the 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 financial years respectively. The Governor said this substantial growth underscores the county’s effective revenue collection strategies and commitment to financial stability.
Highlighting the pivotal role of agriculture in the county, Njuki emphasized that the county’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) heavily relies on this sector, which sustains the livelihoods of many residents. ‘Agriculture remains at the heart of our development and transformative agenda,’ he stated while encouraging value addition to agricultural products to enhance profitability f
or farmers.
The governor expressed his full support for the Certified Seed Program, designed to provide farmers with high-yield seeds to combat food insecurity. ‘We are dedicated to ensuring that our residents are well-nourished and food secure,’ he declared. He underscored that the program aims to deliver substantial harvests and support the county’s goal of self-sufficiency in food production.
The governor further revealed that to improve soil health, the county has procured soil testing equipment and initiated remote scanning for 3,000 farmers. He said the initiative is part of a broader strategy to boost agricultural productivity and ensure sustainable farming practices.
Njuki underscored his administration’s top priority, accessible healthcare while announcing the renovation of every dispensary in the county to bring services closer to the people. The Governor also highlighted the cost-effective approach to patient-care and the provision of free eye clinics in Marimanti and its environs. Additionally,
he said, plans are underway to establish mobile health clinics to reach remote areas, ensuring no resident is left behind.
Njuki also emphasized the importance of preventive healthcare measures adding that the county is launching a comprehensive vaccination program to protect against common diseases and improve overall public health. He disclosed that his administration is investing in maternal and child health services, aiming to reduce infant and maternal mortality rates.
The Governor also revealed plans to relocate Kathwana Prison from the CBD to Kabariange to pave way for the development of a Level 5 hospital, a new police station, and a stadium in the town center. The prison facility that was sitting on a 44 acres parcel of land will now have 62 acres. ‘These projects are expected to significantly enhance the county’s infrastructure and service delivery,’ he elaborated.
Governor Njuki acknowledged the challenges faced in service delivery due to delays in receiving equitable share allocations. He empha
sized the county’s reliance on its own revenue collection in the interim and called for the swift passage of the County Allocation of Revenue Act to ensure timely funding.
With these comprehensive strategies, Governor Muthomi Njuki could be poised to drive Tharaka Nithi County towards a future of prosperity and growth, promising substantial improvements in agriculture, healthcare, and infrastructure for all residents.