NGPU December 16, 2023

Nakuru County Enhances Capacity of Municipal Board Members and County Assembly Committees

Authored by Annette Njoroge

In a strategic move to foster sustainable urban development, the Department of Lands, Physical Planning, Housing, and Urban Development in Nakuru County organized a three-day validation and capacity-building workshop for its urban institutional boards and diverse county assembly committees.

The workshop aimed to assess and validate the administration’s initiatives on governance and management of Nakuru’s urban areas and suburbs. Additionally, it sought to enhance the effectiveness of the two institutions through discussions on legal frameworks, budgeting, and amplifying urban development strategies.

Hon. John Kihagi, the CECM for the Department, officiated the workshop and highlighted Nakuru’s status as a fast-growing city with a high number of institutional bodies. He emphasized the need for proper planning and management of urban areas in alignment with Governor Susan Kihika’s 6-point Urban Agenda.

“The collaboration between these institutions is symbolic of the administration’s commitment to cooperation and knowledge-sharing to tackle pressures emanating from Urbanization,” noted CECM Kihagi.

Chief Officer for Housing and Urban Development, Kamau Kuria, led an interactive session where members shared key challenges faced in their roles over the past six months. This session aimed to provide a better understanding of the diverse delegated functions in line with Governor Susan Kihika’s Urban Agenda.

Hon. Palang’a, the MCA for Ol’Karia and committee chairperson, emphasized the need for boards to put into action the knowledge gained during such forums. He also highlighted the County Assembly’s commitment to ensuring boards work effectively within their mandate.

Catherine Changwony, Chief Officer for Lands and Physical Planning, expressed gratitude for the attendees and emphasized the workshop’s significance in formulating effective policies and strategies for development implementation.

The workshop provided a platform for new resolutions, collaborations, and networking, allowing members to explore potential solutions to challenges faced. The exchange of ideas positions Nakuru County’s governance for seamless development implementation and serves as a focal point for inclusive and sustainable urbanization through better urban governance.

Key attendees included CEC Public Participation and Devolution Jacquiline Osoro, CECM Roads, Public Works and Infrastructure Michael Kamau, Chief Officer Roads Ken Mugo, CO Public Service and Devolution Charles Koech, Charles Mwai from Nakuru Public Service Board, along with departmental directors and technical staff.