Thika on the brink of city status as Kiambu county pushes upgrade
Future projects include a proposed airstrip at Del Monte, a Ksh.2 billion light rail system, the establishment of ICT and tech hubs, and the modernization of hospitals and Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) centers to meet the needs of the growing population.
By Weru Mwangi
The Kiambu County Government has initiated the legislative process to elevate Thika Town to the status of the sixth city in Kenya. Governor Kimani Wamatangi recently presented an ad hoc report and charter to the County Assembly of Kiambu for approval.
During a ceremony at the Mount Kenya University Graduation Pavilion in Thika, Wamatangi handed the report, prepared by a committee led by former Senator Sylvia Kasanga, to County Assembly Speaker Wakili Charles Thiong’o and Clerk John Mutie. The assembly is expected to approve the report for submission to the Senate.
Once the Senate grants approval, the report will be forwarded to President William Ruto, who will then officially confer the city charter upon Thika.
Governor Wamatangi emphasized that achieving city status will attract significant development, including infrastructure improvements and the creation of over 50,000 jobs. Kasanga noted that the report was comprehensive, beginning with public participation before the drafting process.
In collaboration with the national administration, the regional government plans to allocate Sh 1 billion annually for infrastructure development. This project will utilize 690 acres of land ceded by Del Monte fruit processing company.
Wamatangi outlined several planned developments aimed at transforming Thika into a smart city. These initiatives include a Sh 5.7 billion water reticulation project in partnership with the national government to enhance the Thika Water and Sewerage Company’s capacity and Sh 500 million allocated for walkways and non-motorized transport.
Additionally, his administration is installing 2,500 solar streetlights, while the Kenya National Highway Authority is set to dual the Thika-Kolpin section of the Garissa road to alleviate congestion.
"These projects are not just about infrastructure; they are also about creating jobs and business opportunities for our people," stated Wamatangi.
Under the Kenya Urban Support Programme, the county administration is investing Sh 256 million in infrastructure projects, while Thika Stadium is being modernized with a budget of Sh 250 million to provide a world-class venue for local and national events.
Significant investments are also planned for Madaraka, Jamhuri, and Kiganjo markets, with Sh 1 billion earmarked to enhance these trading hubs. Additionally, there are plans to relocate the GK prison from the central business district to the outskirts of the town.
Future projects include a proposed airstrip at Del Monte, a Ksh.2 billion light rail system, the establishment of ICT and tech hubs, and the modernization of hospitals and Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) centers to meet the needs of the growing population.
However, the Governor acknowledged that the process will not be without challenges, facing opposition from critics, including some politicians. "It is not going to be an easy walk; we must accommodate the wishes and aspirations of our people. I assure you that no one will be evicted from their homes," Wamatangi reassured residents.
He also urged the public to disregard claims that the cost of living would increase with the town's upgrade to city status.
Wamatangi was joined by county ward representatives, including Kennedy Mwangi (Township), John Njiru (Hospital), and Peter Mburu (Kamenu). Deputy Speaker John Njiru, also the Hospital Ward MCA, highlighted that the new status will lead to substantial job opportunities and economic growth.
Mt. Kenya University Vice Chancellor Deogratius Jaganyi remarked that elevating Thika to city status represents a significant boost for the town's growth.
The ad-hoc and County technical committees have been tasked with facilitating Thika's transformation into an industrial smart city, culminating in the President conferring the city charter. These committees will also ensure compliance with the Urban Areas and Cities Act to support the transition from municipality to city status.
Once known as Kenya's industrial hub, Thika is set to reclaim its former glory as the first city in the Mt. Kenya region.
The city status is expected to bring substantial benefits, including infrastructural development, improved social standards, and economic growth through new business establishments, increased property values, and a 24-hour economy.
The new Export Processing Zone (EPZ) and affordable housing projects are projected to create over 50,000 jobs, making Thika an attractive destination for local and international investors. The County has allocated 325 acres for the EPZ, which is anticipated to enhance investment opportunities in manufacturing, agro-processing, and technology sectors.
Additionally, the County has partnered with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to improve waste management at the Kang'oki dumpsite, adopting innovative semi-aerobic landfill techniques.
Situated along the Nairobi-Nyeri highway and home to over 700,000 residents, Thika is poised to become Kenya's newest Industrial Smart City. With this elevation, Thika is expected to gain enhanced international visibility, opening doors to various global opportunities and collaborations.
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