Sagana: Residents of Sagana, Kagio, and Wang'uru towns have supported a proposal by the Kirinyaga County Government to create two new municipalities. The move seeks to strengthen urban planning, enhance infrastructure, and open up access to funding from the National Government and development partners. Under the proposal, Sagana and Kagio will be merged into one municipality, while Wang'uru will stand independently.
According to Kenya News Agency, county officials say the plan is driven by rapid population growth, increased business activity, and the need for better urban management to support expanding economies in the three towns. Speaking during public participation forums held across the towns, County Executive Committee Member for Lands, Housing, and Urban Development, Rev Samuel Kajobe, emphasized the importance of engaging residents to ensure their views inform major development decisions.
Kajobe mentioned that Sagana, Wang'uru, and Kagio are poised for rapid urban growth with expanding populations and strong economic activity driven by trade and industrial development. He projected Sagana's population to reach about 175,000 due to the ongoing construction of an industrial park, while Wang'uru's catchment area extends to Murang'a, Nyeri, and Embu, bringing its expected population to over 100,000.
Rev Kajobe noted that the county is already benefiting from the Kerugoya-Kutus Municipality, and expanding municipal coverage will promote balanced development across the county. The mapping and boundary review process is led by a committee chaired by Irene Kiatu from the IEBC, established in April this year to guide the process and collect residents' views.
Kariti Ward Member of the County Assembly (MCA) Jeremiah Makimi welcomed the initiative, recalling that Sagana and Kagio once had a town council before devolution. He emphasized that if full municipality status is not possible, granting town status would help qualify for KURA-constructed roads, set up local management committees, and establish facilities such as fire stations and reliable water supply.
Residents and business owners expressed optimism that the elevation will transform their towns and create new opportunities. Mary Nyawira, a trader from Kagio, said the plan will attract investors and generate jobs. Wachira Njogu, another trader, noted that upgrading the town's status was long overdue and emphasized the benefits of improved infrastructure and public amenities.
Once approved, the municipalities will qualify for additional funding to improve roads, sewer systems, drainage, waste management, and markets.