Governor George Natembeya has urged the newly appointed Kitale Municipal Board members to work diligently in transforming the municipality into a favorable environment for investments. Speaking at their swearing-in ceremony at Kitale Town Hall, the governor expressed confidence in the seven new members and emphasized the importance of creating conditions conducive to business growth.
Natembeya highlighted the significant resources allocated to the municipality, cautioning the board members to avoid conflicts of interest. “The municipality will receive considerable funding aimed at improving Kitale, which may tempt some members to engage in unethical behavior,” he warned, underscoring the need for ethical conduct as they carry out their duties.
The newly formed board is chaired by Wilberforce Sikuku, with members including Davis Lumbasi, Alice Waruguru, Victor Simiyu, Janet Kemunto, and former Sitatunga MCA Daniel Kaburu. Governor Natembeya described the municipality as a semi-autonomous entity with the freedom to manage its resources without interference from the executive. However, he stressed the importance of cooperation with county government officials to enhance service delivery.
“I advise you to always adhere to the law to make Kitale town better,” Natembeya said, acknowledging the capability and dedication of the new team. He encouraged the Board to ensure equitable development across all areas of the municipality.
Natembeya also called on staff from various departments, now assigned to the Board, to fully commit to the development of the municipality. Additionally, he urged the team to manage the distribution of business spaces in local markets fairly, aiming for balanced opportunities across the region.
CEC for Lands, Physical Planning, Housing, and Urban Development, Janerose Nasimiyu Mutama, noted that the establishment of the Municipal Board opens up new avenues for donor funding, including potential support from the World Bank. She committed to accelerating the policy-making process for Board initiatives, moving them quickly to the Cabinet for approval.
The event was attended by several prominent officials, including MCAs Alfred Weswa (Lands Committee Chair), Eric Wafula (Minority Leader), Furaha Lusweti, Francis Were, and nominated MCA Tabitha Waruguru. Other attendees included County Secretary Truphosa Amere, Kitale Municipal Manager Irine Nang’ole, and CECMs Bonniface Wanyonyi (Water), Pepela Wanjala (Finance), along with Chief Officers Sammy Sichangi (Governance), Dr. Rosely Nasiebanda (Lands), and Joseph Wasike (Roads).
