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Dr. Sonia Nzilani Leads Konza Technopolis Buffer Zone Planning

Makueni’s Executive Committee Member for Lands and Urban Planning Dr. Sonia Nzilani on Thursday chaired a multi-agency technical team sitting in Naivasha to develop an Inter –County Buffer Zone Physical and Land Use Development Plan around the 10 km radius Konza Technopolis buffer area. The buffer area spreads across Makueni, Kajiado and Machakos.
The team comprises of surveyors, physical planners and environmentalists from Makueni, Machakos, Kajiado, Konza Technopolis Development Authority and Ministry of Lands and Urban Planning.
The proposed 10-year plan is intended to align the Technopolis development plan with that of the 10km buffer zone so as to create a symbiotic growth. The plan will also enhance investments attraction as the buffer area complements development at the Technopolis.
Some of the key strategic installations suggested for the buffer area include an Airport, health facilities, light industries, green spaces, water dams, University College (completion of Scott University) among others.
When completed, validated and approved by the three county assemblies, the plan will be implemented by the national government, the three county governments and other development stakeholders as envisioned in the plan.
Makueni’s Devolution CECM Japheth Mang’oka, Lands and Urban Planning CECM Machakos Phillip Kilonzo as well as CEC’s from Kajiado also participated in the event.
 
 
 
 
 

Dr. KYOYA SWORN IN TO LEAD MAKUENI COUNTY EMPOWERMENT FUND

Dr. Annah Kyoya has been sworn in as chairperson of the Makueni County Empowerment Fund (MCEF) following her successful vetting and approval by the Makueni County Assembly.

Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. witnessed the swearing-in ceremony, administered by the County Attorney, and urged Dr Kyoya to discharge her duties diligently.

The governor said the county’s priority is to boost economic empowerment while increasing household incomes among Makueni residents. He revealed that the county has already secured Sh160 million for the fund, with additional resources expected through partnerships aimed at strengthening its impact.

MCEF remains a key economic pillar in the county, structured as a revolving fund that provides sustainably affordable, interest-free credit to residents, particularly those running micro and small enterprises.

Dr Kyoya, who will chair the MCEF Committee, is expected to supervise the fund’s operations and spearhead efforts to grow its capital base through stakeholder engagement.

Speaking after taking the oath of office, Dr Kyoya thanked the county government for entrusting her with the role, terming it a noble mandate.

The swearing-in ceremony was also attended by County Executive Committee Members: Japheth Mang’oka, Joyce Mutua, and Eng. Sebastian Kyoni.

Established in 2015 under the Public Finance Management Act, the fund has undergone several reviews of its guidelines and regulations to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

MCEF is currently anchored under the Makueni County Social Protection Act, 2025, and the MCEF Regulations, 2025. It is wholly owned by the County Government of Makueni and domiciled within the Department of Gender, Children, Youth, Sports and Social Services.

The fund’s mandate includes providing access to capital and financing facilities to micro and small enterprises owned by marginalized groups—youth, women, men, and persons with disabilities—facilitating investment in small businesses, and advancing loans to village savings and loan associations across the county.

DNRC RECEIVES 100-SEATER TENT AND CHAIRS AS KAMBA CULTURE TAKES CENTER STAGE

The rich heritage of the Kamba community came alive on Friday as residents of Kisau Division in Mbooni gathered at the Drylands Natural Resource Centre (DNRC) to celebrate traditional foods, herbal medicine, music and indigenous knowledge.

The cultural event attracted wide participation from local residents and visitors, reaffirming the importance of preserving and promoting Kamba traditions.

A key highlight of the day was the handover of a 100-seater tent by the County Government to DNRC to support cultural exhibitions and community events.

Speaking during the occasion, DNRC proprietor Nicholas Syano called on communities to embrace indigenous products and safeguard traditional knowledge as a valuable cultural and economic resource.

In line with Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr.’s development agenda, the County Government has set aside funds in the 2026/27 financial year to support the preservation and commercialization of Kamba indigenous knowledge and products.

The event was attended by Director Mutua Mulonzya of Culture, Music and the Arts directorate.

Distribution of Pesticides to counter African Army worm outbreak

The CECM Agriculture, irrigation, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperative Development Ms Joyce Mutua led a team of extension officers in fighting the African army worm in Kaiti and Kilome sub counties.The African Army Worm (AAW) Spodoptera exempta is the larva of a  migratory night flying moth hich is a pests of cereal crops and pastures. The economic importance of this pest is due to its rapid development, high reproductive capacity, and migration mobility.  Outbreaks are commonly preceded by extended drought and follow the onset of wet seasons when dry grasslands produce new growth and cereal crops are planted.The first incident of AAW outbreak was reported in Makueni County in Ivingoni Nzambani andMasongaleni wards in Kibwezi East Sub-County by end of November, 2022.  By mid-December 2022, the outbreak had spread in all sub counties. Following the outbreak, the county government in partnership with the National government, moved quickly to combat the pest and avert further damage to crops. A total of 650 litres of assorted chemicals, sprayers and Personal Protective Equipment have been issued to farmers in control the infestation and sensitize to farmers on mitigation measures. The support was distributed to the sub counties based the levels of infestation reported.

 

Joyce Mutua, ECM Agricuture led county extnsion officers in some parst of Kaiti and Kilome subcounties to provide technical support and supply farmers with pestcides in a move to contain the pest.

 

DISTRIBUTION OF MARKET CLEANING TOOLS

Market Cleaning Program is a significant step towards improving the cleanliness and overall hygiene of our local markets. This program aligns with our commitment to fostering a healthier and more sustainable environment within our trading areas.

Our markets in Makueni County are not only places of commerce but also vital hubs of community interaction. They serve as economic drivers and places where diverse members of our community converge. However, over time, concerns have arisen regarding their cleanliness and sanitation. These issues not only affect the well-being of our community but also the perception of our markets. The Market Cleaning Program is designed with the objective to;

  • Enhance Hygiene: Implement regular cleaning and sanitation measures to ensure a clean and hygienic market environment for vendors and visitors alike.
  • Beautification:Beautify market areas through landscaping, waste management, and improved infrastructure.
  • Community Involvement: Encourage active participation from vendors, local businesses, and community members to take ownership of the cleanliness of our markets.

In view of achieving the above objectives, the Directorate of Trade has outlined a comprehensive plan, which includes:

  1. Regular Cleaning Schedule: Implementing a consistent cleaning schedule with dedicated personnel responsible for daily maintenance.
  2. Waste Management: Introducing proper waste disposal facilities and practices to minimize litter and promote recycling.
  3. Awareness Campaigns: Conducting awareness campaigns to educate market stakeholders and the community about the importance of cleanliness and hygiene.
  4. Community Engagement: Organizing volunteer-driven cleanup events, involving local schools, businesses, and residents.
  5. Infrastructure Upgrades: Evaluating and making necessary infrastructure improvements to ensure long-term sustainability.
  6. Empowering Market Participants: We believe that the success of this program hinges on the active involvement and empowerment of market participants.

Thus, the Trade directorate has initiated a program to furnish cleaners in over 120 markets earmarked for cleaning with sanitation equipment and is committed to work closely with vendors, business associations, community groups to ensure our markets are transformed into cleaner, safer, and more vibrant entrepreneurial spaces.

DIGITAL HEALTH PLATFORM BOOSTS KATHONZWENI HOSPITAL OWN SOURCE REVENUE TO KSH 1.7 MILLION

Kathonzweni Level 3 Hospital has recorded a major revenue breakthrough, hitting KSh 1.7 million in SHA claims last month, a sharp rise from the previous average of KSh 600,000 to 1.1 million.

The impressive jump follows the rollout of TIBERBU, a digital health claims system under Taifa Care.

Implemented by the Digital Health Authority, in partnership with the Makueni County Government, TIBERBU is transforming healthcare by digitising service delivery, enabling real-time SHA claims and reducing turnaround time for patient care.

During an inspection visit on Wednesday, CECM for Health Joyce Mutua commended the staff for team work and noted the system’s impact, in expediting patient care and ensuring timely claims from SHA.

She said SHA rembursements will be retained at the health facilities to improve hospital infrastructure, restocking essential supplies, and hire additional staff.

Mutua urged the community step up SHA registration, including schools who form the bulk of the hospital’s clients, to help sustain and expand access to quality healthcare services.

Diaspora public participation engagement

Over 300 Makueni residents living in Mombasa on Tuesday engaged in public participation forum for the 2023/24 Financial Year budget estimates at Jambo restaurant in Mombasa.
Water projects,Healthcare and roads infrastructure topped in the list of the needs they want the county government to undertake in the next FY.
Speaking while addressing the forum,Deputy Governor H.E Lucy Mulili promised that Governor Mutula’s administration is keen on delivering on key projects that benefit the local mwananchi.
Mulili also warned that their government will not tolerate lazy contractors who do shoddy jobs at the expense of public money.
The public participation model allows local people in the county decide which development projects to embark on and then manage them once they are commissioned.
The DG was flanked by devolution CEC,Japheth Mang’oka, Education and ICT CEC,Elizabeth Muli, Water and Sanitation CEC Eng. Kasyoki Kieti,several chief officers and members of County Budget and Economic Forum.
 
 

DIABETES PREVALENCE IN MAKUENI STANDS AT 3.7%: HEALTH OFFICIALS URGE ACTION

Makueni County has a diabetes prevalence rate of 3.7%, translating to approximately 4 out of every 100 residents living with the condition, according to statistics shared by Health Services Chief Officer Dr. Stephen Ndolo.

Speaking during an event at Mutulani Market to mark World Diabetes Day on Friday, Dr. Ndolo emphasized the urgency of adopting modern strategies to enhance diabetes prevention, diagnosis, and management.

He praised community health promoters for their dedication to conducting door-to-door diabetes screenings, noting that such proactive measures are instrumental in improving the overall health of Makueni residents.

Dr. Ndolo also encouraged residents to embrace healthy lifestyles, including balanced diets, regular physical activity, and routine health screenings, as effective ways to combat the growing burden of diabetes in the county.

DG Roots for Gender Based Violence Recovery Centre


Deputy Governor Makueni H.E Adelina Mwau (Center) leading talks on how to establish a gender based violence centre in Makueni when she met a delegation from the Nairobi Women Hospital’s Gender Violence Recovery Center at the Governor’s boardroom in Wote Town.
Makueni Deputy Governor Adelina Mwau has announced plans by the county to partner with Nairobi Women’s hospital to establish a gender based violence recovery centre in Wote town.
Ms Mwau said that she is shocked at the horrendous nature of gender violence in the county adding that many women were getting battered and maimed or killed by violent spouses in the area.
She said that a significant number of cases of violated victims have been reported in various county facilities something she noted has raised quite an alarm.
“I am happy that the Nairobi Women hospital’s Gender Violence Recovery Centre is ready to partner with us in this initiative which I consider very nobble,”Ms Mwau said.
The Deputy Governor a  pro-gender reforms crusader said that the level of violence against women in the county had hit a crescendo and called on the national government institutions including the administration and the police to work with victims in order to tame the vice.
“We are also concerned as a county government that many victims are not reporting their cases to the police as is required. We are appealing to the administrators especially chiefs and their assistants to be more proactive on this matter,” she said.
Reports on violence against women in the area have increased in the recent past. Local TV stations have been running stories showing badly battered women attacked by their spouses in various sub-counties in the area.
During a consultative meeting between the county and the Nairobi Women hospital in Wote town on Tuesday the Executive Director of the Gender Violence Recovery Centre Mr Albert Wambua said the organization is ready for partnership to develop the recovery center at the Makueni level 4 hospital.
“As an organization we want to say we are ready to support this idea. And we want to say that we are going to do our part to ensure we have a complete project for the Makueni County,” he said.
Makueni County Secretary and Head of Public Service Paul Wasanga said the county is in full support of the initiative adding that the idea is people centered and could not have come at a better time.
Said Mr Wasanga, “I want to commit that as a government we support this initiative. We have nominated government officers to a joint task force that will work out clear details and a develop   a frame work of how the implementation will be done.”
Commenting on the matter,Makueni County Assembly speaker Douglas Mbilu said that the assembly will support the government by ensuring request to finance the construction of the center is approved.
“As leaders we are also concerned about the magnitude of this abuses. As the speaker I will support government initiatives to develop such a center even as we call for a major campaign against gender violence in this area,”Mr Mbilu said.
He said the situation had reached intolerable levels as many people had been killed or permanently disabled because of domestic violence.
  • March 7, 2018 in News