The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. has rolled out a community economic empowerment programme in Matiliku, where dozens of local groups received business support equipment, while unveiling plans for the construction of a Sh65 million maternity wing at Matiliku Sub-County Hospital.
Speaking during the event on Thursday, the governor announced that the county government, in partnership with the M-Pesa Foundation, will finance the construction of the modern maternity facility to improve maternal healthcare services in the area.
The empowerment initiative saw six community groups receive tents, while two groups were issued public address systems. In addition, 64 groups, including churches, benefited from chairs, with several other beneficiaries receiving cooking utensils aimed at supporting catering and small business enterprises.
The county government also distributed 268 cooking gas cylinders under its clean cooking programme implemented in collaboration with National Oil Corporation of Kenya. County officials said the partnership will also establish a gas refilling station in Matiliku to enhance access to affordable and clean cooking fuel.
Governor Mutula further revealed that Makueni has secured 12 new export markets for its mangoes and is working to reopen Middle East markets that had previously been closed to the county’s produce.
He expressed confidence that expanding access to international markets would improve earnings for mango farmers and strengthen the county’s agricultural economy.
On infrastructure development, the governor said the planned construction of a High Court in Matiliku will spur economic growth by attracting businesses to the area while improving residents’ access to judicial services.
The event was attended by Douglas Mbilu, Nzaui/Kilili/Kalamba MCA Francis Mutuku, Mbitini MCA Bernard Mutua, Nominated MCA Arbunus Wambua, County Executive Committee Members and other county officials.
