Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti, when she received the Ad Hoc Committee reports on the conferment of municipal status

Machakos County, under the leadership of Governor Wavinya Ndeti, has officially begun the process of establishing four new municipalities: Kathiani/Mitaboni, Mwala/Masii, Matuu/Kithimani, and Kithyoko/Kivaa/Masinga/Ekalakala.

This initiative is part of the county’s long-term strategy to promote structured urban growth, improve service delivery, and create economic hubs that bring governance closer to the people.

By granting municipal status, the county aims to ensure that these towns develop in an organised and sustainable manner, attract investment, and provide residents with improved infrastructure, governance, and economic opportunities.

Governor Wavinya Ndeti, while receiving the Ad Hoc Committee reports on the conferment of municipal status, highlighted that these reports serve as strategic blueprints for transforming the towns into vibrant, autonomous urban centers.

She noted that they are not merely formal documents but practical guides that identify priorities such as urban planning, infrastructure readiness, environmental sustainability, and public participation.

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She also emphasised that the committee’s work was conducted in full compliance with the Constitution of Kenya (2010), the Urban Areas and Cities Act, and the County Governments Act, demonstrating the county’s commitment to legality, transparency, and accountability.

"These reports represent strategic blueprints for transforming these towns into vibrant, autonomous urban centres. The process was conducted in strict accordance with the Constitution of Kenya (2010), the Urban Areas and Cities Act, and the County Governments Act, ensuring full legal and statutory compliance. The work of the committee highlights the importance of urban planning, infrastructure readiness, environmental sustainability, and public participation," said Wavinya.

The governor explained that after her cabinet reviews the reports to ensure all recommendations are feasible and aligned with county priorities, they will be submitted to the County Assembly for final approval.

She stressed that swift action is necessary, as residents are eager to experience the benefits these reforms will bring, including better governance, improved services, and enhanced local economic opportunities.

"The next steps will involve reviewing the reports with my cabinet and submitting them to the County Assembly for final approval. I urge county lawmakers to act with urgency, as the people of Machakos are eagerly awaiting the benefits of these reforms," added Wavinya.

Governor Wavinya Ndeti further outlined the expected impact of the new municipalities on economic growth and structured urban development.

She indicated that once granted municipal status, these towns are expected to become centres of business and investment, boosting local employment and economic activity.

She also noted that the county would draw lessons from existing successful municipalities such as Mavoko, Machakos, and Kangundo/Tala, applying tested frameworks for governance, service delivery, and administration to ensure rapid and effective implementation.

"The new municipalities are expected to serve as economic growth centres, enhance service delivery, and promote structured urban development. We will draw from the successful frameworks of Mavoko, Machakos, and Kangundo/Tala municipalities, including the delegation of devolved urban service functions and the appointment of boards and managers," said Wavinya

Governor Wavinya recognised the professionalism and dedication of the Ad Hoc Committee that carried out the assessments.

She reaffirmed that her administration remains committed to integrity, transparency, and people-centered governance, emphasising that the process is designed to benefit residents fairly and sustainably while establishing a strong foundation for long-term municipal success.

Nicodemus Mbwika, the Chairperson of the Ad Hoc Committee, urged the County Assembly to ensure the establishment of these municipalities, noting that this would bring additional funding to the county.

He emphasised that the committee had fulfilled all its legal obligations and carried out its work through public participation, engaging all stakeholders within the communities.