The Chairperson of the Meru Chapter of the Chamber of Commerce and the Meru County Municipal Board,Joshua Mung’ania has lauded the Meru residents for their cooperation, discipline and goodwill which led to the success of major national events hosted in Meru town in 2025.
He said the unity exhibited by the residents and the local authorities is key in unlocking Meru as a regional economic hub and in elevating Meru town to city status among other benefits.
Speaking at his office at the Royal Business Park in Meru town, Mung’ania said the municipal board worked closely with residents, most of whom are business people operating within the town.
He noted that this cooperation was clearly demonstrated during two major national events held in Meru this year: the National Drama Festivals and the County Assembly Sports Association (CASA) games, which attracted visitors from across the country.
“I want to thank Meru residents because you know that we had two major events in Meru town; the national drama festivals and the CASA games. The visitors had a great time in Meru and when we requested Meru residents to watch our visitors, they complied,” said Mungania.
Mung’ania said the positive conduct of residents during the events helped project Meru as an organised, safe, and welcoming town, capable of hosting large national functions.
He noted that such unity between residents and local authorities is critical as Meru seeks to strengthen its position as a regional economic hub.
He also expressed gratitude to Meru Governor Mutuma M’Ethingia, saying the county leadership has a clear vision for Meru’s growth.
Mung’ania stated that the governor has openly stated his intention to see Meru elevated to city status, noting that the county already meets many of the requirements needed for such an upgrade.
“ Governor Mutuma has very good thoughts about Meru town and the entire county. The Governor has expressed his desire for Meru County to be elevated to city status because we have all that is needed for Meru Town to become a city,” said Mung’ania.
He highlighted support from the national government, noting that President William Ruto has agreed to assist in the elevation of Meru Level Five Hospital to Level Six status, similar to Kenyatta National Hospital.
He said such developments are among the critical requirements for a town seeking city status.
The chairperson also noted that the national government has committed to begin the construction of the Gakoromone Market in January 2026, a project expected to cost KSh 800 million and become one of the largest markets in the country.
“You remember that this year, our President, William Ruto said that he would assist in the elevation of Meru level Five Hospital to level six just as Kenyatta National Hospital. These are some of the things that warrant Meru to become a city.The national governement has already told us that in January they will begin constructing Gakoromone market which has a budget of KSh 800 million,” said Mung’ania.
In addition, Mung’ania noted that plans are underway to complete the stalled Rwanyange sewerage project, stressing that a functional sewerage system is essential for any town aspiring to become a city.
He explained that the project stalled due to challenges with the contractor but thanked Water, Sanitation and Irrigation Cabinet Secretary Eric Mugaa for intervening to ensure the process resumes, with tendering already ongoing.
Mung’ania also touched on the political environment in Meru County, noting that prolonged political wrangles since 2022 had slowed development.
He said leaders have since agreed to work together, reducing political noise and creating a stable environment that has begun attracting investors into the county.
Nonetheless, Mung’ania wished Meru residents a merry Christmas, urging them to share what they have with the less fortunate and to celebrate with thanksgiving.
Edited by John Majau
