Murang’a County has cemented its place among Kenya’s top-performing devolved units after Governor Dr Irungu Kang’ata received the County and Towns Excellence Award 2025 in recognition of his administration’s Smart City Programme.
The programme that was established almost two years ago, is a visionary initiative that is reshaping infrastructure and governance across the county.
The award was presented during the Smart Cities Forum 2025, jointly organized by the Town and County Planners Association of Kenya and the Nation Media Group.
The two-day event brought together planners, policymakers, and innovators to discuss urban sustainability, digital transformation, and climate-resilient infrastructure for Kenya’s counties.
Governor Kang’ata said the accolade was a testament to his county’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable growth.
Through the Smart City Programme, the county has rolled out a wide range of projects including tarmacking and cabro paving of key access roads, construction of modern drainage systems, installation of solar-powered streetlights and beautification of market centers.
“These infrastructural upgrades have made rural towns more accessible, stimulated trade, and improved the overall quality of life for residents,” Dr. Kang’ata said.
“Today, even small centers such as Kangari, Kiriaini, and Kanyenyaini are experiencing the benefits of modern urban planning,” he added.
Beyond infrastructure, Murang’a’s Smart City vision integrates technology and innovation into public service delivery.
The Governor revealed that the county has digitized several administrative processes, such as business licensing, revenue collection, and development approvals, measures that have enhanced efficiency, accountability, and transparency in county operations.
“At the heart of this digital transformation is the Geographical Information System (GIS) project, a data-driven initiative mapping public land, roads, markets, health facilities, and water projects,” he stated.
The system is expected to guide future investments, reduce land disputes, and ensure that infrastructure development is well-coordinated.
“The GIS initiative will provide vital data to support better planning, infrastructure development, and service delivery,” Dr Kang’ata noted.
“It will also help identify priority areas for investment and streamline resource allocation,” he added.
Murang’a has also prioritised environmental sustainability by incorporating green spaces and proper waste management in its urban centers.
The county has initiated tree planting along major roads and introduced structured waste collection systems to keep towns clean and attractive for both residents and investors.
Experts at the forum lauded Murang’a’s approach as a model for smart and sustainable urbanisation.
The county’s success story demonstrates how effective leadership, digital innovation, and community participation can transform rural economies into thriving, well-planned towns.
Murang’a’s steady rise as a smart county continues to attract national attention, positioning it as a benchmark in Kenya’s broader effort to promote tech-enabled, inclusive, and environmentally conscious development.
By Bernard Munyao
