On Friday, the County Assembly of Trans Nzoia was briefed on the Kitale Integrated Development Plan (IDEP) during a meeting convened by the Department of Lands, Physical Planning, Housing, and Urban Development. The IDEP, a crucial five-year blueprint, is designed to steer Kitale Municipality’s growth and unlock significant funding opportunities.
The Importance of IDEP Approval
County Executive Committee (CEC) Member for Lands, Janerose Mutama, underscored the significance of the IDEP’s approval, which is essential for accessing donor funding under the Kenya Urban Support Program (KUSP). Mutama emphasized that meeting performance benchmarks, including the approval of the IDEP, would enable Kitale Municipality to secure Ksh 291 million in funding this financial year.
“The IDEP is a mandatory document for Kitale Municipality to benefit from KUSP funding. We urge the County Assembly to expedite its approval, as assessments are due next week,” Mutama stated.
Acknowledging the Assembly’s Support
Dr. Roselyne Nasiebanda, the Chief Officer for Lands, expressed gratitude for the support of the County Assembly’s Lands Committee. She highlighted the department’s progress in meeting mandatory requirements, such as the approval of municipal board members, and reiterated the importance of the IDEP’s approval for securing funding.
“We truly appreciate your support so far. Your approval of this document is crucial for ensuring we qualify for funding,” Dr. Nasiebanda remarked.
Engagement in the IDEP Process
KISIP2 Project Coordinator Edith Baraza praised the County Assembly’s involvement in the IDEP process and encouraged continued collaboration. “Your input into this document is invaluable. It will enhance the plan and ensure inclusivity in its development,” Baraza noted.
The Role of the IDEP in Development
Alfred Weswa, Chair of the County Assembly Committee on Lands and Urban Planning, emphasized that the IDEP is a foundational document for accessing critical development funds. He pointed to the ultra-modern market in Kitale, established during the first phase of the KUSP program, as a prime example of the program’s impact.
“The IDEP has strict timelines. We must expedite its approval to enable the municipality to benefit from this multi-million-shilling program,” Weswa urged.
County Leadership’s Support
Minority Leader Eric Wafula commended the leadership of Speaker Obed Mwale and Majority Leader Edwin Koech for their support of the IDEP process. “This plan is essential for Kitale Municipality’s development and the broader growth of Trans Nzoia County,” Wafula stated.
Next Steps
The meeting, attended by top officials such as Physical Planning Director Beatrice Wangila, Kitale Municipality Manager Irine Nang’ole, and Director of the Governor’s Delivery Unit Edward Khaoya, marked an important step in ensuring that the IDEP is finalized for formal approval. The IDEP is expected to be tabled in the County Assembly soon, paving the way for transformative projects in Kitale Municipality and securing critical funding.
