Nyambene residents are set to benefit from major development initiatives after Meru County Governor Mutuma M’Ethingia announced plans to establish a modern regional library and expand miraa export markets.
Speaking at Maua Stadium during the graduation ceremony of ZOE Empowerment beneficiaries, the Governor said the proposed library will serve residents of Igembe and Tigania, significantly improving access to learning and research resources in the region.
Governor M’Ethingia noted that the facility will promote a culture of reading and innovation while supporting students, researchers, entrepreneurs and members of the public who currently travel long distances to access library services.
“This library will be a centre of knowledge and innovation. It will benefit learners, job seekers and business people across Igembe and Tigania. Our people will no longer need to travel to Meru town to access library services,” he said.
The Governor was presiding over the graduation of beneficiaries of the ZOE Empowerment Programme, who underwent training in various vocational and entrepreneurial skills, including tailoring, hairdressing, agribusiness, mechanics and entrepreneurship.
In a move expected to significantly boost the local economy, Governor M’Ethingia also announced that the county government is in the final stages of securing arrangements to export miraa to Somalia.
He said opening the Somali market will stabilise miraa prices, expand market opportunities and improve livelihoods for thousands of families in the Nyambene region, where miraa farming remains a key economic activity.
“Our miraa farmers will soon access the Somali market. This will help stabilise prices and ensure better returns for farmers,” he stated.
The Governor commended the ZOE Empowerment Organization for its role in uplifting vulnerable members of society, saying such programmes are critical in reducing unemployment and promoting self-reliance.
He urged the graduates to make good use of the skills and financial support they received to create sustainable livelihoods and generate employment opportunities for others.
“You are the backbone of our future economy. Use these skills to uplift yourselves and your communities,” he added.
By Kamanja Maeria
