GOVERNOR MALOMBE APPEALS TO PRESIDENT RUTO TO FAST-TRACK DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS IN KITUI

Kitui Governor Dr. Julius Malombe used this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations held at the newly commissioned Ithookwe Stadium to make a passionate appeal to President William Ruto to prioritize key national government projects in Kitui County. The governor said that accelerating the completion of these projects would greatly improve livelihoods, boost economic growth, and strengthen the county’s integration into the national development agenda.

In his speech, Dr. Malombe called for the completion of Umaa Dam to enhance water supply across Kitui, noting that access to clean water remains a major challenge in the semi-arid region. He also urged the government to fast-track the construction of the Enziu River Bridge in Mwingi, which has claimed lives in the past, and revitalize Kithomboani Market to provide a safe and modern trading space for women traders displaced by recent demolitions.

The governor further emphasized the need to upgrade key road networks within the county, including the Wikililye–Kavisuni–Thwake–Wote road, which links Kitui to Makueni County. He also highlighted the Mulutu–Ithiiani–Tiva–Kiliko and Makutano–Mbusyani–Ithimani–Ikolania–Ithiiani roads as critical infrastructure that would open up rural areas, ease transport, and spur trade across the region.

Dr. Malombe noted that Kitui County is already on a growth trajectory, citing the ongoing and proposed construction of modern markets in Kakongo and Kamuwongo, the rollout of 2,000 affordable housing units, and the establishment of a Kenya Utalii College campus at Tiva as transformative projects that will create jobs and uplift local communities.

He expressed gratitude to the national government for major achievements already realized in the county, including the 10,000-seater Ithookwe Stadium, the Kitui Mini State Lodge, and the Ithookwe Airstrip. The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to continue partnering with President Ruto’s government to ensure that Kitui’s potential is fully harnessed.

In closing, Dr. Malombe paid glowing tribute to Kenya’s heroes, from freedom fighters to local icons such as Mbiti Mati, Kitili Mwendwa, and Nzamba Kitonga. He also honored the late Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga, describing him as a true national hero whose courage, patriotism, and dedication to democracy continue to inspire generations.