Matiang'i launches Sh6 billion projects in Nyandarua

Interior Cs Fred Matiangi during a press conference at Nyandarua county government's offices at Ol Kalou on June 15, 2020. [Joseph, Standard]

Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i toured Nyandarua County yesterday and unveiled two major projects estimated to cost Sh6 billion.

Among them is Sh4.5 billion road network in and outside the county, construction of Sh450 million sewerage system in Ol Kalou and the establishment of a potato processing factory.

Matiang'i, who chaired leaders meeting at Ol Kalou, the county headquarters, said the projects will start next month.

The CS who chairs the committee mandated to supervise all government projects, including the 'Big Four' agenda, said the projects were among those President Uhuru Kenyatta promised voters in the region in the run-up to the last General Election.

Matiang'i noted that the county is set to get 89 kilometres of road connectivity.

"We have agreed as leaders to give this priority as the region has lagged behind in terms of development due to poor roads. Everything is in order and the works will start next month," said Matiang'i.

He noted that the roads would benefit farmers who have in the past suffered as they could not deliver farm produce to markets.

On water and sewerage system in Ol Kalou town, the Ministry of Water will commence works immediately as the funds are already available.

Matiang'i was accompanied by Water and Sanitation Cabinet Secretary Sicily Kariuki, Health CS Mutahi Kagwe and Nyandarua Governor Francis Kimemia.

The CS also promised to look into the region's security matters amid rising cases of murder in Ol Jororok.

This year alone, more than 10 deaths have been reported with the recent incident involving a woman and her two-year-old son.

"We will not allow this to happen anymore and that is why I have personally come to the ground. We have to arrest those behind these killings," he noted.

Kimemia hailed the cooperation between the county and National Government, saying it is through such projects that counties are able to realise their development goals and prosperity.

"We will continue to work together so that our people can get services. The county government will make sure all these projects are completed in good time to benefit the residents," he said.

Nyandarua produces between 33 and 35 per cent of total potato yield in the country.

Two of the major challenges facing farmers is the poor road network, which makes it hard to deliver their produce to the market, and exploitation by middlemen.