NYERI -The national government is injecting Sh21 billion into development projects across Nyeri County, targeting infrastructure, housing, and youth empowerment in a major economic push. The investment package includes the construction of 8,000 affordable housing units, 20 modern markets, and hostels for 7,200 students.
Speaking during the commissioning of the new Karatina Marigiti ESP Modern Market in Mathira on Tuesday 12th January, President William Ruto said the market is one of 400 such facilities being built nationwide. The modern markets are designed to create jobs for youth and women, enhance trade, and come equipped with cold storage, ICT hubs for e-commerce, lactation rooms, daycare centres, and restaurants.
“The youth are directly involved at the market construction sites, and we are partnering with local Jua Kali Associations in making steel doors, windows, and fittings to ensure economic benefits remain within the communities,” said President Ruto.
In a separate event at the Kabiru-ini ASK Grounds, Dr Ruto launched the disbursement of Sh173.2 million in start-up capital to 6,982 young entrepreneurs from Murang’a, Nyandarua, Kirinyaga, and Nyeri Counties under the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) programme.
Each beneficiary received Sh25,000 for business and an additional Sh3,000 to register with the National Social Security Fund (NSSF). The NYOTA programme aims to reach 820,000 youth countrywide with business support, training, mentorship, and savings promotion.
On infrastructure, he announced that the government announced it has secured funding to complete stalled road projects nationwide. In Nyeri, the upgrading of at least eight key roads is underway for a total of Sh4 billion.
During an inspection of the Kenol-Sagana-Marua Road, President Ruto confirmed plans for a dual carriageway from the Marua Interchange to Nyeri Town and Chaka Township in Kieni Constituency.
The 84-kilometre road, part of the Trans-African Highway network, is expected to enhance regional trade and improve transportation safety and efficiency upon completion.
The President also commissioned a new tuition block at PCEA Nyamachaki Comprehensive School in Nyeri town, underscoring the multi-sectoral focus of the development drive.
