Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata has called for dialogue to resolve the ongoing concerns raised by EarlyChildhood Development and Education (ECDE) teachers in the County, even as he outlined major achievements made by his Administration in education, healthcare, agriculture and revenue growth.
Speaking during his State-Of-The-County Address at the Murang’a County Assembly on Tuesday, Kang’ata said the demands by ECDE teachers to be employed on permanent and pensionable terms should be handled through consultation and a phased approach.
The Governor noted that while the teachers’ concerns are genuine, the County government must make decisions based on financial realities.
He said employing the teachers on permanent terms can be done gradually instead of making abrupt promises that may not be sustainable in the long run.
“We need dialogue and practical solutions. This matter can be addressed in phases rather than making commitments that may strain county finances,” said Kang’ata.
The governor revealed that Murang’a currently spends about 60 percent of its total revenue on salaries and wages, which is above the 35 percent ceiling provided for under public finance management regulations.
He added that the High Court had directed County governments to comply with the legal wage threshold within the next three years.
Kang’ata said despite the financial pressure, his Administration appreciates the role played by ECDE teachers in nurturing young learners and remains committed to finding a workable solution.
The Governor highlighted notable milestones achieved by the County government in improving the lives of residents.
In the education sector, He said more than 500 ECDE classrooms have been constructed or renovated, creating a better learning environment for children.
He added that the County’s Uji feeding programme is now supporting over 42,000 learners across the county.
In healthcare, Kang’ata said access to medical services has improved significantly through the Kang’atacare Programme, which has benefited thousands of vulnerable families.
He also cited the expansion of dialysis services, establishment of new health facilities and the adoption of telemedicine, which has so far recorded more than 70,000 virtual consultations.
“These initiatives have brought quality and timely healthcare closer to our people,” he remarked.
On agriculture, the Governor said over 86,000 farmers have benefited from the Inua Mkulima programme through the distribution of farm inputs.
He added that thousands more farmers are benefiting from subsidies in dairy and mango farming, helping to improve household incomes and strengthen food security.
Kang’ata also emphasized the County’s commitment to transparency and efficiency, pointing to the successful automation of health services and increased Own-Source Revenue collection, which he said has strengthened Murang’a’s financial independence.
Despite the gains, the governor acknowledged that challenges still remain, particularly in the dairy sector and the County’s high wage bill.
He re-affirmed his administration’s commitment to responsible governance, fiscal discipline and sustainable development.
Looking ahead, Kang’ata said industrialisation remains the County’s top priority, with plans focused on creating jobs, increasing incomes and transforming Murang’a into a modern and urban economy.
by Bernard Munyao and Purity Mugo
