By A Special Writer

WOTE

Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. has officially signed off on the 2025/2026 ward development projects, following an unprecedented public participation exercise that drew over 39,000 residents across the county.

The signing ceremony, held at the Makueni PWD Centre, marked the culmination of a county-wide budget-making process hailed as a benchmark in participatory governance.

Governor Mutula was joined by his deputy, Lucy Mulili, during the vibrant public validation forum on Thursday.

Governor Mutula commended ward committees for their extensive mobilization and civic education efforts, which he said played a key role in boosting turnout and enhancing public awareness.

“This is more than just participation in development planning,” he said. “It’s about influencing development outcomes and ensuring that the real benefits reach the people.”

Deputy Governor Mulili echoed the sentiments, adding: “This process has empowered communities to speak for themselves. Every project endorsed today reflects the real needs identified by residents in every corner of Makueni.”

Among the priority projects signed off include the construction of ECDE classrooms, rehabilitation of rural access roads, expansion of water pipelines, and equipping of health facilities—all identified through grassroots consultations across the county’s 30 wards.

In a move to widen inclusivity, the county government has also rolled out digital platforms to engage Makueni residents living outside the county, enabling them to take part in planning and decision-making from afar.

With the projects now validated and approved, implementation of the citizen-driven priorities is set to begin, reinforcing Makueni’s reputation as a leader in people-centered governance.

Read more stories from Makueni County at The Anchor: http://www.theanchormedia.org