The Department of Housing and Planning in Kiambu County has initiated a series of public participation forums aimed at shaping the Comprehensive County Spatial Plan (CSP) for the ten-year period spanning 2023 to 2024 Financial Years.
These forums serve as a crucial step for determining the development projects to be undertaken throughout the county. Rooted in Article 174 of the Kenyan Constitution, which empowers citizens to actively participate in governance decisions, the engagements aim to involve the community in matters directly affecting them.
Commencing Thursday, the forums have already reached twelve venues, including locations in Thika, Ruiru, Gatundu North, and South, among others. Scheduled to continue today in additional areas like Lari, Githunguri, Kiambaa, Kabete, Ndeiya, and Karai, the forums seek to gather insights and feedback from diverse communities.
Upon completion, the plan will provide a comprehensive framework guiding infrastructure development, environmental conservation efforts, and land use policies within Kiambu County over the next decade.
During these sessions, representatives from various wards, such as Mwihoko in Ruiru Sub County, have voiced their aspirations for the region’s future. Highlighting key priorities such as education and infrastructure, residents emphasized the need for well-equipped educational facilities and improved transportation networks.
Moreover, concerns about waste management and land ownership have been addressed, with calls for enhanced garbage collection services and expedited issuance of title deeds to rightful landowners.
Governor Wamatangi’s administration, in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) through the Digital Land Governance Programme (DLGP), spearheads these forums. The participation of key stakeholders, including government officials, community leaders, and representatives from professional bodies, underscores the importance of collective input in shaping the county’s development trajectory.
Madam Hannah Maranga, Director of Physical Planning, stressed the significance of such forums in aligning development agendas with community needs, affirming the project’s role in providing a strategic framework for Kiambu County’s growth.
The ongoing engagement reflects a commitment to inclusive governance and collaborative decision-making, setting the stage for a more resilient and prosperous future for Kiambu County and its residents.
