The national government has intensified efforts to improve service delivery and combat illicit brews in Tharaka Nithi County following the installation of the first Assistant County Commissioner (ACC) for the newly created Mugwe Division.
Speaking during the installation ceremony at Kambandi, Tharaka Nithi County Commissioner David Gitonga said the elevation of Mugwe into a fully fledged administrative division marks a significant milestone in decentralising government services and bringing them closer to residents.
Gitonga said the recognition of Mugwe as an official division will enhance coordination of government programmes, improve security, and accelerate development.
He urged residents to support the national government in the fight against illicit brews, drug abuse and other social vices, noting that alcohol and substance abuse continue to destroy livelihoods, particularly among the youth.
“The fight against illicit brews and drugs remains a government priority. We must all work together to protect our young people and build a productive society,” he said.
The newly installed Assistant County Commissioner, Rose Gakii Miriti, pledged to work closely with local leaders, government agencies, and residents to promote development and improve service delivery in the new division.
Miriti said her administration would embrace teamwork, accountability and public participation to ensure government programmes effectively reach the people.
“I am committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure Mugwe division realizes its full development potential and that government services are delivered efficiently,” she said.
Area Member of Parliament Patrick Munene congratulated the new Assistant County Commissioner and called on residents to accord her the necessary support to enable her to discharge her duties effectively.
The legislator also raised concern over the increasing consumption of alcohol among young people during daytime hours, warning that the trend poses a serious threat to the community’s social and economic well-being.
Munene appealed to the Tharaka Nithi County Government to review the licensing of bars, arguing that revenue generation should not take precedence over the health and productivity of residents.
He observed that Kambandi Trading Centre does not require more than two licensed bars, saying reducing the number of alcohol outlets would help curb the growing problem of alcohol abuse.
by Dickson Mwiti and Christine Ngitori
