Wamatangi: I talk less but my work in Kiambu speaks for itself

Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi. [George Njunge, Standard]

Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi’s trajectory as a leader has taken a stark turn since his election in 2022.

Known during his tenure as a senator for his frequent appearances on radio and TV, Wamatangi has now traded the spotlight for the trenches of governance.

He says his focus is squarely on delivering development rather than engaging in public debates—a shift he views as necessary to meet the expectations of his constituents.

“For ten years as Senator, my job was pushing laws and policies in Parliament and on debate platforms. We succeeded on many fronts. But the work of a governor is different; it requires more action than words. My work should speak for me,” he said in an interview.

Since taking office, Wamatangi has maintained a rigorous daily schedule, starting his mornings at 5:30am with management meetings to align his team on the county’s priorities. By mid-morning, he is out in the field monitoring projects and meeting residents.

One of Wamatangi’s most applauded initiatives is the launch of ‘Wamatangi Care,’ a universal healthcare programme providing free medical cover for Kiambu residents.

Over 100,000 beneficiaries have accessed services under the programme, which caters to outpatient and inpatient needs and chronic illnesses like diabetes and cancer. Families also benefit from funeral support, receiving Sh100,000 in burial expenses.

Additionally, the county is constructing 16 new Level 3 hospitals and completing stalled Level 4 hospitals in Lari, Thogoto and Githunguri. These facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment, including X-ray and ultrasound machines. The Governor says the projects aim to bring quality healthcare closer to communities.

“We are nearing completion of Karuri and Juja Level Four Hospitals, which are 90 percent done. We are also addressing land issues for facilities in Kiamumbi and Mwihoko to expedite construction,” he said.

On education, Wamatangi’s administration has made significant progress. Last year, it completed 109 new Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) centres and is currently constructing 138 more, now nearing completion. He aims to have all 524 planned centres operational by 2026.

Each ECDE centre features classrooms, ablution blocks, and play areas equipped with swings, tunnels, and sandpits. His administration has also introduced a feeding programme for ECDE learners, offering fortified porridge daily, eggs twice a week, and milk every Thursday. This has boosted attendance rates from 32,000 to over 39,000 learners.

In the bursary programme, Wamatangi increased allocations to Sh500 million for the 2024/2025 financial year, benefiting over 100,000 students across the county.

To address youth unemployment, the Governor has modernised 39 Vocational Training Centres (VTCs), equipping them with advanced tools for automotive mechanics, hospitality, and other trades.

Wamatangi has prioritised agricultural development by distributing certified seeds, fertilisers, fruit seedlings, and livestock to over 500,000 farmers. In addition, his administration has supplied 300,000 Kienyeji chicks and piglets to boost livelihoods.

To support local traders, modern markets have been constructed or rehabilitated across the county. The governor has also overseen the rehabilitation of more than 1,000 kilometres of roads and the installation of solar-powered streetlights in all wards under the “Angaza Kiambu” programme.

He says the administration has introduced a strict work ethic, beginning with early morning management meetings that set the agenda for the day. This new culture of discipline ensures alignment with the Governor’s manifesto and fosters efficiency.

“In many government offices, officials arrive late and leave early. Here in Kiambu, my team knows the day starts at 5:30am,” he said.

His administration has, however, not been without challenges. The transition from the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) to the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) has raised concerns among residents. The governor says his administration is working with the Social Health Authority (SHA) to ensure uninterrupted access to healthcare services.

Despite these hurdles, Wamatangi believes his approach will leave a lasting legacy. “The people of Kiambu entrusted me with this mandate, and I am determined to deliver. My focus remains on action, not words,” he said.