Ethnic minority communities in Kiambu County have renewed demands for inclusion in county governance, citing persistent exclusion from county opportunities despite decades of living and investing in the county.
The communities voiced their grievances during the launch of the Kiambu Diaspora Association (KDA) at St. Patrick’s Grounds in Thika, where they called on Governor Kimani Wamatangi to act on constitutional guarantees of equality and non-discrimination.
Speaking at the forum, KDA Chairman Francis Kilango said minority residents continue to be sidelined in access to county opportunities, even as Kiambu positions itself as a cosmopolitan and fast-growing region.
“Many of our people have lived in Kiambu for years, paid taxes and contributed to its economy, yet they remain excluded from jobs, decision-making, bursaries and key county programmes. We have formally petitioned the governor to address this imbalance in line with the Constitution,” said Kilango.
He said the petition urges the county government to adopt clear inclusion policies to ensure fair representation of minority communities in public service, equitable distribution of resources and meaningful participation in county affairs.
The Constitution of Kenya requires state organs and public institutions to protect minorities and marginalised groups, promote inclusivity and ensure equitable access to opportunities. Leaders at the meeting said these principles have not been fully realized at the county level.
The event was officiated by Kiambu County Deputy Speaker John Njiru, who represented Governor Wamatangi. Njiru said the county leadership had acknowledged the concerns raised and committed to inclusive governance.
“We are moving deliberately from exclusion. County opportunities, including jobs and bursaries, must reflect fairness and diversity among all residents,” Njiru said.
The calls come amid heightened national focus on minority rights following the Cabinet’s recent approval of the Ethnic Minorities and Marginalised Communities Bill, 2025, which seeks to strengthen protection of minority groups and address instances of historical exclusion.
Leaders expressed optimism that sustained engagement with the county government, backed by constitutional provisions, would translate into tangible change.
“Inclusion is not a favor,” Kilango said. “It is a constitutional right, and Kiambu must lead by example.”
By Muoki Charles
