The County Government of Embu has embarked on a programme of upgrading key urban roads to bitumen standards at a cost of Sh140 million.
The development is part of Governor Cecily Mbarire’s infrastructure agenda aimed at enhancing connectivity, supporting local businesses and improving livelihoods.
Some of the earmarked roads include three feeder roads in Embu Town, Rwika Market Road in Mbeere South Constituency, Siakago Market Road in Mbeere North Constituency, and Runyenjes Town exit in Runyenjes Constituency.
Other components of the projects include street lighting, proper drainage systems, culverts, and pedestrian walkways.
County executive Committee Member (CECM) in charge of Roads, transport and public works Francis Ndwiga said the upgraded roads will offer smoother, safer and more reliable travel for commuters, residents and traders.
Speaking while handing over the sites to respective contractors yesterday, Ndwiga said the roads are set to be key drivers of sustainable economic growth across the county by enhancing access for farmers and local businesses thus enabling more efficient transportation of goods and stimulating trade.
One of the key areas where the programme will have a huge impact is in Rwika Market that is home to Jeremiah Nyagah National Polytechnic, which has a student population of over 6,000.
The institution trustee and former Kamukunji Member of Parliament Noman Nyaga termed the project as a “long-awaited milestone” that will act as a critical catalyst for investment.
“We will miss the dust and the mud that have been a common feature here and the programme will go a long way in easing access to the institution,” he said.
He reported that the poor state of the road had occasioned stagnation of the student population owing to the poor state of access roads and the new development will act as an impetus to bring in more students.
On his part, Kirimari Ward MCA Ibrahim Swaleh welcomed the project in Embu Town, noting that it will ease movement of people and also improve the working environment for business owners in the area.
He said the poor state of the roads have occasioned traders untold suffering as a result of weather vagaries including dust during dry spells and mud during rainy seasons.
Swaleh also called on the County Government to make a shift from gravelling of roads especially in towns to tarmac that is more sustainable and long-lasting to curb investment waste.
By Samuel Waititu
