The national government has launched the construction of the 60th Huduma Centre at Shaviringa in Tiriki East Sub County, in a move aimed at enhancing access to government services for residents of Vihiga County and neighbouring areas.
The Sh 9.5 million first-phase project was officially launched today during a groundbreaking ceremony led by Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service Felix Koskei alongside Principal Secretary for Public Service and Human Capital Development Dr. Jane Kere Imbunya and other senior government officials.
The event brought together Principal Secretary for Higher Education and Research Dr. Beatrice Inyangala; Principal Secretary for Economic Planning Boniface Makokha; Principal Secretary for Industry Dr. Juma Mukhwana, Hamisi MP Charles Gimose, local leaders, National Government Administration Officers (NGAO) headed by the DCC Vihiga Linet Orina, chiefs, assistant chiefs and members of the public.
Mr. Koskei marked the official commencement of the project through the laying of a foundation stone, signaling the government’s commitment to decentralizing services and improving efficiency in public service delivery.
Speaking during the event, Tiriki East Deputy County Commissioner Michael Too thanked President William Ruto for supporting development initiatives in the region through the Huduma Centre project and other ongoing government programmes.
He also commended Dr. Imbunya for her continued support and commitment to improving the welfare of residents of Tiriki East through various development interventions.
Hamisi MP Charles Gimose assured residents that he would continue advocating for their needs at the national level to ensure they benefit from government programmes, projects and services aimed at improving livelihoods and promoting grassroots development.
Dr. Inyangala reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening higher education through the provision of essential infrastructure and resources.
She noted that the government would continue supporting universities and colleges through the construction of hostels, classrooms, and other facilities, as well as providing financial support to learners.
She urged parents and guardians to ensure students enroll in institutions of higher learning, noting that government reforms had made education more affordable and accessible to many families.
Dr. Imbunya said the Huduma Centre was a fulfillment of a long-standing request from the local community, adding that residents will soon enjoy easier access to a wide range of government services without travelling long distances.
She praised the people of Tiriki East for actively participating in community development initiatives and encouraged them to continue supporting government programmes designed for socio-economic growth.
The Principal Secretary further called on residents to remain patient and allow the government sufficient time to implement its development agenda, noting that numerous projects were underway across the country.
Leaders present at the event also urged residents to support government development programmes and work closely with public institutions to accelerate progress in the region.
Mr. Koskei lauded President Ruto’s administration for implementing policies and programmes aimed at transforming the lives of Kenyans through improved service delivery and development projects.
He expressed concern over cases of illicit alcohol brewing and drug abuse reported in parts of the region and urged residents, especially the youth, to embrace productive activities that contribute positively to society.
The Head of Public Service commended the community for engaging in self-help initiatives, cooperative societies, small-scale farming and other development-oriented activities that contribute to economic empowerment and improved living standards.
Residents who attended the event welcomed the project, expressing gratitude to the government for prioritizing development in the area. They noted that the Huduma Centre would significantly reduce the time and cost incurred while seeking government services, thereby improving convenience and efficiency for the local population.
Once completed, the facility is expected to enhance access to essential government services and support the government’s agenda of bringing services closer to wananchi across the country.
By Kelly Barasa and Maureen Imbayi
