More than KSh273 million has been invested in infrastructure and basic services in Majengo, Mjini and Salama informal settlements in Meru Municipality under the Kenya Informal Settlements Improvement Project (KISIP II).
The World Bank, Governor Mutuma M’Ethingia administration and Government of Kenya-supported programme is funding road construction, drainage systems, street lighting, water infrastructure and sanitation facilities aimed at improving living conditions for residents in the three settlements.
Meru Deputy Governor Linda Kiome said the investments were transforming the settlements and improving access to essential services.
“These investments are significantly improving infrastructure, sanitation, security, water access and the general living conditions of residents,” Kiome said.
In Majengo, the programme has delivered 492 metres of tarmac roads and stormwater drainage, installed 16 solar streetlights and three high-mast security lights, and laid 726 metres of water pipelines.
The settlement has also received a 75-cubic-metre elevated water tank, a 5,000-litre water kiosk, one dumpster and 10 waste bins.
Last-mile water connections targeting 60 households are ongoing.
In Mjini, the project has covered 397 metres of tarmac roads and drainage, installed 13 solar streetlights and two high-mast security lights, and laid 715 metres of water pipelines.
Other interventions include a 75-cubic-metre elevated water tank, a 5,000-litre water kiosk, an ablution block and 10 waste bins.
Last-mile water connections for 12 households are also underway.
In Salama, 410 metres of tarmac roads and stormwater drainage have been undertaken, alongside the installation of 12 solar streetlights and one high-mast security light.
The settlement has also received 285 metres of water pipelines and 10 waste bins, while last-mile water connections targeting 12 households are ongoing.
Grass and tree planting across the three settlements is also underway as part of efforts to promote cleaner and environmentally sustainable neighbourhoods.
Kiome said the county’s pursuit of municipality status was a deliberate strategy to position its urban centres for greater development opportunities and partnerships.
“Our pursuit of municipality status is not about titles or recognition alone. It is about creating pathways for better infrastructure, improved service delivery, dignified living conditions and expanded economic opportunities for our people,” she said.
She added that the county administration remained committed to developing inclusive, modern and sustainable urban centres.
The meeting was attended by Acting County Secretary David Baariu, Chief of Staff Harun Abuana, County Executive Committee Member for Education, Arts and Culture Dr Esther Rukunga, CECM for Trade, Tourism and Cooperatives Rev. Carol Kaberia, and Chief Officer for Lands, Physical Planning, Urban Development, Housing and Public Works Mr Sarafin, among other technical officers.
