MURANG’A: The County Assembly of Murang’a has advocated for a significant expansion of infrastructure to accommodate the rapid urbanization within the municipality, as revealed in a recent report discussed in the Assembly.
According to Kenya News Agency, the report on Murang’a Municipality Integrated Development Plan 2023-2027 was presented by Chefman Njoroge, the Vice Chairperson for Lands, Housing, Physical Planning, and Settlement Committee. Njoroge highlighted the urgent need for effective management of urban growth to harness its socio-economic benefits while mitigating adverse effects. He stressed that the transformation from agricultural lands to urban settlements has placed considerable pressure on existing infrastructure and services.
The assembly recognized that the increase in urban population demands a robust spatial plan to ensure sustainable development. Njoroge explained that the Integrated Development Planning (IDeP) tool assists county governments in adapting to urban development challenges
, focusing on improving urban service delivery, restructuring municipalities, and enhancing urban planning mechanisms.
The report pointed out a significant gap between the demand for essential infrastructure services, such as water and sewerage, and the financial capacity to support urban development. Njoroge also noted the importance of transportation services within the municipality, mentioning the congestion caused by tuktuks, motorcycles, and matatus on the town-Mukuyu route.
Supporting the motion, Hillary Mwigai and Gladys Wambui, members of the Assembly’s Lands, Housing, Physical Planning, and Settlement Committee, emphasized the need for improved waste management and environmental conservation. Wambui proposed the creation of a leisure park named Migingo Park to enhance the municipality’s recreational facilities.
The report further recommended that municipalities within the county should have distinct financial autonomy to independently manage their financial affairs. It also urged the fast-tracking
of urban area planning and encouraged public-private partnerships for infrastructure development.
In conclusion, the assembly called for strengthening the municipality’s capacity to manage urban growth and prepare for potential disasters, ensuring a balanced and sustainable urban expansion.
