Truckers Association of Kenya Advocates for Collaborative Road Safety MeasuresKiambu Governor Revamps Committee to Assess Thika’s City Status Bid

MIGORI, Kenya – The Truckers Association of Kenya (TAK) is rallying truck, tipper, and tractor Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies (Saccos) across the nation to unite for the enhancement of road safety. The call to action was made during the first-anniversary celebration of the Migori Katuoro Tippers and Truck Sacco (KTTS) in Migori Town.

According to Kenya News Agency, the association is committed to advancing road safety through ongoing training programs for truck owners, drivers, and mechanics. These initiatives, which focus on aspects such as defensive driving and effective truck management, are part of a broader collaboration with the Kenya National Highway Authority (KeNHA) and law enforcement agencies to ensure compliance with traffic regulations and promote safer roadways.

David Odhiambo, Chairperson of the Migori Katuoro Sacco, highlighted the benefits of affiliating with TAK, urging other Saccos to engage with the association to access educational programs and financial support for vehicle acquisition. The partnership with TAK enabled the Migori Katuoro Sacco to secure a loan for purchasing a TATA tipper truck, a significant step toward economic growth for the cooperative.

TATA Kenya’s National Sales Manager, Michael Orwako, emphasized the company’s dedication to providing durable and cost-effective trucking solutions. He pointed out that Saccos purchasing TATA trucks through TAK affiliation benefit from comprehensive after-sales services, including maintenance and safety training, underscoring the value of such collaborations in the transport industry.

During the event, Migori Governor Ochilo Oyacko praised the positive impact of such partnerships on community and economic development. However, he expressed concern over the financial burden placed on individuals, particularly young Kenyans, who acquire vehicles on loan terms that exceed the market value. He advocated for fair pricing to foster socio-economic advancement and discouraged practices that undermine financial empowerment.

Governor Oyacko’s remarks underscored the broader appeal for unity among transport Saccos in Kenya, encouraging them to collaborate with national organizations like TAK to leverage collective resources, enhance road safety, and secure economic benefits for their members.

THIKA, Kenya – In a pivotal move to advance Thika’s pursuit of city status, Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi has overhauled the evaluation committee tasked with this assessment, introducing a fresh panel of experts to spearhead the process.

According to Kenya News Agency, the governor’s office detailed the composition of the new committee, signaling a robust push towards achieving city status for Thika by year’s end. During a public address in Githunguri, Governor Wamatangi underscored the strategic formation of the select committee, which amalgamates professionals from various prestigious bodies, including the Architects Association of Kenya, the Law Society of Kenya, and the Institute of Surveyors of Kenya, alongside representatives from the local business community.

The appointed members, among them Sylviah Mueni Kasanga, Gitu Kahengeri, and Zachary Ng’ang’a Mwaura, bring a wealth of expertise from their respective fields to assess Thika’s urban development and readiness for city accreditation. This committee is expected to commence its duties on March 25, 2024, embarking on a comprehensive one-year term to evaluate Thika’s infrastructure, governance, and urban planning efforts.

Thika’s ambition to attain city status began under former Governor James Nyoro’s tenure, focusing on infrastructural enhancements supported by the Kenya Urban Support Programme and the World Bank. Notable advancements include administrative restructuring and proposals for significant projects such as an airport in Gatuanyaga, aiming to stimulate regional tourism and economic growth.

However, Thika’s journey toward city status is met with challenges, including infrastructural deficiencies, transportation inefficiencies, and environmental concerns that necessitate meticulous planning and substantial investment. The county has earmarked funds for critical upgrades like water distribution, with additional allocations proposed for broad urban development initiatives extending to neighboring locales such as Juja and Gatundu.

The reconstitution of the committee represents a critical step in Thika’s urban evolution, setting the stage for an in-depth evaluation that will inform the town’s eligibility for city status. Governor Wamatangi’s proactive leadership reflects a commitment to fostering sustainable urban growth and enhancing the quality of life for Thika’s residents.