Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has issued a stern warning to road contractors in Kenya who are delaying government projects, despite receiving payment. He stated that the government will no longer tolerate such delays, emphasizing that Kenyans are eagerly awaiting improved infrastructure. Kindiki made these remarks while inspecting development projects in Mathira Constituency, Nyeri County, where he reviewed the progress of several road projects.
During his visit, Kindiki inspected the ongoing tarmacking of the Mungetho-Thuthwa-Kathutho-Katiki Road and addressed residents at Thutwa Trading Centre. He emphasized that his responsibility is to ensure government projects are completed on schedule and meet the required standards. The Deputy President was firm in his stance, stating that lazy contractors who fail to meet timelines will be removed from construction sites.
Kindiki highlighted the importance of improved road infrastructure to the local agricultural economy, particularly dairy and coffee farming. He noted that the region has been left behind for a long period, resulting in milk getting spoiled during transportation due to poor road conditions. The Deputy President announced that the government has allocated Sh45 billion for the construction of 775 kilometres of roads across Nyeri County, covering all six constituencies.
In addition to road infrastructure, Kindiki revealed that the government is implementing several other development projects in Nyeri County. An additional Sh650 million has been allocated to expand electricity connections to 12,000 more households, while 13 modern markets are under construction. The Marikiti Market in Karatina has already been completed, according to the Deputy President.
The government is also undertaking 10 affordable housing projects and six hostel projects in the county. Kindiki announced that construction of Ruring'u Stadium in Nyeri Town has resumed after stalling for over 15 years, with an expected completion date before the end of the year. Furthermore, the government has allocated Sh1 billion to upgrade Mwai Kibaki Teaching and Referral Hospital in Othaya to a Level Six facility.
During his tour, Kindiki called for political unity among residents of the Mt Kenya region, urging leaders and their supporters to avoid violence and confrontations over political differences. He emphasized that politics will come and go, but the community will remain united. The Deputy President urged politicians to focus on policies and programmes, allowing voters to make their own choices without intimidation or harassment.
Kindiki was accompanied by Nyeri Senator Wahome Wamatinga, Mathira MP Eric Wamumbi, Nyeri Town MP Duncan Mathenge, Kieni MP Njoroge Wainaina, and several Members of the County Assembly. The Deputy President's visit aimed to inspect the progress of government projects and address the local community on the importance of development and unity.
Key points
- The government has allocated Sh45 billion for the construction of 775 kilometres of roads across Nyeri County.
- Kindiki warns road contractors to meet project timelines or risk being removed from construction sites.
- The government is implementing several development projects in Nyeri County, including affordable housing, electricity connections, and modern markets.
