The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering people-centered development initiatives in critical sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and infrastructure through direct citizen engagement under the Jamii Imara Mashinani initiative.
Speaking during a public forum in Njuki-ini, Gichugu Constituency, Government Spokesman Isaac Mwaura and Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards, Mary Muthoni, led a high-level delegation of senior government and parastatal heads in engaging grassroots leaders and the local community.
Mwaura emphasised that the initiative is anchored on the principle of public participation, which ensures that government projects and programs remain aligned with the needs and aspirations of grassroots citizens.
“Public participation is crucial in ensuring that government projects and programs align with the needs and expectations of the people. The Jamii Imara Mashinani initiative is about transparency, accountability, and dialogue. We want Kenyans to be active participants in shaping development initiatives in their respective areas,” said Mwaura.
The Government Spokesman also used the platform to update locals on the ongoing government projects in Kirinyaga County, noting that open communication is key in building public trust. He further urged residents to embrace the Social Health Authority (SHA) registration process, highlighting its benefits in expanding access to affordable and quality healthcare.
“By registering with SHA, families will have the security of affordable medical care. This is a major step in our universal health coverage agenda, ensuring that no Kenyan is left behind in accessing healthcare,” Mwaura added.
On her part, PS Mary Muthoni explained the Government’s massive investment in strengthening the health sector, particularly in rural areas where access remains a challenge.
“The Ministry of Health is working to expand facilities, increase the number of health workers, and ensure that essential equipment and medicines reach every corner of the country. Healthcare is not a privilege but a right for every Kenyan,” said Muthoni.
The Njuki-ini engagement also brought together several senior parastatal leaders, including Emma Wangari (Kenya Industrial Estates), Winnie Ngumi (Chairperson, Kenya National Highways Authority—KeNHA), Genesio Njagi (Chairman, Kenya Dairy Board), and Mr. Wangoro (Chairman, Biovax). Their participation underscored the Government’s whole-of-government approach to grassroots development.
Residents welcomed the dialogue, noting that such engagements bridge the gap between the Government and the people. Many praised the initiative for giving wananchi a platform to raise their concerns and contribute to policy discussions that directly affect their lives.
Jamii Imara Mashinani, operating under the theme “Tukutane, Tujadiliane na Tushirikiane” (Let us meet, dialogue, and collaborate), has been rolled out across various regions in the country as part of the Government’s efforts to strengthen inclusivity, deepen accountability, and accelerate service delivery.
The initiative reflects President William Ruto’s administration’s commitment to ensuring that all regions benefit equally from national development and that no community is left behind.
By David Wandeto
