Residents of Kirinyaga County are set to benefit from improved social infrastructure following the construction of 11 modern social halls by the County Government, providing communities with dedicated spaces for meetings, training sessions and social gatherings.
The initiative, spearheaded by Governor Anne Waiguru, aims to offer residents dignified and accessible venues for community activities that were previously conducted by roadsides, in rented facilities or within overcrowded homes.
Governor Waiguru said community centers remain vital social infrastructure that promotes empowerment and unity among residents. She noted that the facilities, which are spread across the county, have also enhanced public participation and community engagement.
“Beyond sports, we have strengthened social infrastructure through the construction of social halls and boda boda sheds that support community gatherings, public participation and provide conducive environments for residents,” she said.
The governor explained that the social halls form part of a broader county programme focused on improving social and youth development infrastructure while creating organized spaces for community functions, particularly in densely populated areas of Mwea where land is scarce.
According to Waiguru, the need for community centers emerged from public participation forums where residents consistently requested spaces for social and civic activities.
“These centers are providing accessible spaces for community empowerment, civic engagement, learning and other cultural activities,” she added.
County Executive Committee Member for Sports, Culture and Social Services Dennis Musyimi said the completed facilities have already transformed the social lives of residents by providing organized and dignified venues for various engagements involving both levels of government.
During an inspection tour of development projects, Musyimi revealed that social halls in Mathangauta, Kiandegwa, Kiriko, Kiorugari and Ndindiruku have already been completed and are operational, while those in Githogondo, Matandara, Kangu, Kimunye, Mwietheri and Kirimara are nearing completion.
Apart from hosting meetings and social functions, the facilities are being utilized for mental health support programmes, digital literacy training, crisis response initiatives and cross-cultural dialogue.
Musyimi noted that the social halls are equipped with modern ablution blocks to enhance convenience and service delivery to the community.
Residents have welcomed the development, citing its positive impact on community life.
At Githogondo Social Hall, trader Florence Murage said the facility has become an important venue for women’s group meetings, community forums and funeral planning meetings, easing the challenges residents previously faced when organizing social gatherings.
“Our plots are very small and it has always been difficult to host people for meetings. We thank our Governor for providing this space for the community,” said Murage.
Another resident, Susan Wangari, said the facility has created a safe and accessible environment for youth and women to undertake social development programmes and participate in economic empowerment training.
by Mutai Kipng’etich
