By Mwenda Njeru
Kathwana and Marimanti towns in Tharaka Nithi County are set to witness major developments during phase two of the Kenya Informal Settlements Improvement Project (KSIP)that has already kicked off.
The project is a partnership of the World Bank, National Government and County Government and is aimed at enhancing living standards in the informal settlements.
The phase two prioritizes social inclusion and community-led development through Labour Intensive Community Works (LICWs).
The program includes the construction of water tanks, pipelines, and ablution blocks with modern sanitation facilities and elevated reservoirs to ensure the availability of reliable clean water.
“These initiatives will not only enhance infrastructure in Kathwana which is our county headquarters and Marimanti town, Tharaka constituency headquarters but also provide direct and indirect employment opportunities for both skilled and non-skilled locals and especially the youths,” said Mr Giti Kijiru, the county executive in charge of roads and infrastructure.
The residents of the two towns which have great potential for growing will also have safer and more accessible streets with bicycle paths, pedestrian walkways and improved drainage systems to do away with water logging and destruction of property during floods.
Bodaboda operators will also directly benefit from the construction of sheds in the areas where they wait for customers.
The project will also focus on environmental sustainability and the county Project Coordination Team has planned to plant 10,000 trees some in the towns and on their outskirts.
Phase one of the project saw the installation of floodlights and streetlights in Kathwana and other towns not only improving security but also enabling 24-hour economy.
John Kamau