Machakos County Finalizes Preparations for Launch of Second Youth Service Cohort

Machakos County has finalized preparations for the official commencement of the second cohort of the Machakos Youth Service (MYS), scheduled to begin on 19th January 2026 at the Agriculture Training Centre (ATC).

This follows a consultative meeting between senior county officials and Machakos Youth Service trainers and officers, convened to assess the overall readiness of the programme. The meeting reviewed the status of facilities, infrastructure, training equipment and logistical arrangements to ensure a smooth, well-coordinated and successful rollout of the programme.

Machakos County Secretary Dr. Muya Ndambuki emphasized the need for proper planning and collaboration among all departments involved in the implementation of the programme. He noted that the Machakos Youth Service is a key county initiative aimed at equipping young people with practical skills, discipline and values that prepare them for employment and productive engagement in society.

The County Executive Committee Member for Education, ECDE and Vocational Training, Dr. Consolata Mutisya, highlighted the programme’s role in advancing youth empowerment through vocational training and skills development. She underscored the importance of aligning training with labour market demands while nurturing responsibility, teamwork and self-discipline among the youth.

Also present were the Chief Officer for Machakos Youth Service, Dr. Juliana Wambua, and the Chief Officer for Vocational Training, Mr. Vincent Musili, alongside officers from various departments tasked with supporting the implementation of the second MYS cohort.

The officers provided updates on preparedness in their respective areas and outlined measures taken to address any remaining gaps ahead of the programme’s official launch.

The Machakos Youth Service continues to reflect the Machakos County Government’s strong commitment to youth empowerment through structured training, discipline and job readiness. As the second cohort prepares to report to the Agriculture Training Centre, the county leadership has expressed confidence that the programme is fully prepared to deliver meaningful impact and contribute to the socio-economic transformation of Machakos County by empowering its young people with relevant skills and opportunities.

FAITH NYANZI DECLARES 2027 MCA BID FOR KALAMA WARD, VOWS PEOPLE-CENTRED LEADERSHIP

Hon.Faith M. Nyanzi has officially unveiled her intention to contest the Kalama Ward Member of County Assembly (MCA) seat in the 2027 General Election, marking the start of a bold and people-driven political journey anchored on integrity, service, and inclusive development.

In a declaration that has resonated strongly with residents, Hon. Faith Nyanzi positioned herself as a leader ready to offer fresh energy, accountable leadership, and practical solutions to everyday challenges facing the people of Kalama Ward.

Her campaign message emphasizes unity, empowerment, and tangible service delivery, reflecting a vision she describes as “hope in action.”

Describing herself as a woman of strength and vision, Nyanzi says her decision to seek elective office is motivated by a deep commitment to serve and to champion policies that uplift households, youth, women, and vulnerable groups. She has pledged to work closely with community stakeholders to identify priorities and deliver measurable change across key sectors, including local infrastructure, social services, youth empowerment, and economic opportunities.

“At the heart of my candidature is integrity and purpose,” Nyanzi noted in her campaign messaging. “Leadership must be about service, listening to the people, and translating promises into results that improve lives.”

Her campaign further underscores a collaborative approach to governance, calling on residents to participate actively in shaping the ward’s future. The rallying call, “Together, we build. Together, we rise,” reflects her emphasis on unity and shared responsibility in development.

Political observers say Faith Nyanzi’s early declaration and clear messaging signal a focused strategy aimed at consolidating grassroots support ahead of 2027. As the political landscape in Kalama Ward begins to take shape, her entry adds momentum to conversations around accountable leadership and the role of women in elective politics.

With 2027 on the horizon, Faith M. Nyanzi’s campaign presents a vision she says extends beyond elections, anchored on long-term transformation for Kalama Ward and its people—“2027 and beyond.”

PS Teresia Mbaika launches KSh40 million education infrastructure project at Kyambai Primary School in Kaiti

Principal Secretary Teresia Mbaika today presided over the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of new classrooms, computer laboratories and science laboratories at Kyambai Primary School in Kee Ward, Kaiti Constituency, in a move aimed at strengthening education infrastructure and improving learning outcomes.

Speaking during the ceremony, PS Mbaika announced that the national government, through the Ministry of Education, has committed KSh40 million towards the project, which will see the new facilities constructed to completion. She described the investment as a timely and strategic intervention that underscores the government’s commitment to providing a conducive learning environment for all learners.

The Principal Secretary noted that improved school infrastructure plays a critical role in enhancing the quality of education, increasing enrollment capacity and reducing pressure on parents and communities who often rely on repeated harambees to support school development.

“This project will significantly improve the learning environment for pupils, support the integration of digital learning and science education, and ensure that our children are equipped with the skills they need for the future,” she said.

PS Mbaika also urged parents and community members to support development initiatives by electing leaders who are empathetic, responsive and committed to addressing grassroots needs. She encouraged residents to fully take advantage of ongoing government programmes under the Kenya Kwanza administration, including affordable housing, healthcare reforms and youth empowerment initiatives.

She emphasized that education remains a key pillar of national development, adding that sustained investment in schools is essential for social transformation and economic growth.

The event brought together key leaders and education stakeholders, including Kaiti MP Hon. Joshua Kimilu, Makueni County CEC for Education Japheth Mang’oka, the Regional Education Officer, County Education Officer, Kee Ward MCA Hon. Manzu, Dr. Damaris Maweu, Director at KEMRI, Dr. Ndolo, and other government officials.

Local leaders and residents welcomed the project, terming it a major boost to education in the area and a clear demonstration of the government’s commitment to uplifting communities through improved access to quality education.

Governor Wavinya Ndeti commissions new road equipment to boost infrastructure development across Machakos County

Machakos County Governor H.E. Wavinya Ndeti has commissioned a new fleet of road construction and maintenance equipment, significantly strengthening the county’s capacity to improve and maintain road infrastructure across all wards.

The commissioning ceremony was held at Lilongwe Grounds in Mutituni Ward, where the Governor officially launched 10 new graders, two rollers and one wheel loader. She described the acquisition as a major milestone in her administration’s efforts to transform infrastructure and enhance service delivery throughout Machakos County.

Governor Wavinya Ndeti said the equipment was procured under her administration’s flagship Barabara Mashinani programme, guided by the development philosophy “Chakula Mezani, Pesa Mfukoni.” She emphasized that reliable road infrastructure is key to unlocking economic opportunities, improving livelihoods and supporting efficient movement of goods and people.

“With this additional machinery, we have greatly enhanced our ability to open, grade, gravel and maintain roads in all the 40 wards,” the Governor said. “Quality roads are essential for connecting our people to markets, schools, health facilities, churches and other social amenities.”

The Governor highlighted progress already made through Rapid Results Initiatives, noting that the county has so far graded over 3,158 kilometres of roads, alongside routine maintenance of existing bitumen roads. She said the improved road network has reduced travel time, eased transportation challenges and stimulated economic and social activities across the county.

Governor Wavinya Ndeti further outlined key roads that have been successfully upgraded to bitumen standards under her administration. These include the 5-kilometre Katangi–Kithimani Road, with an additional 25 kilometres already contracted for upgrading in Yatta Sub-County; the 3.2-kilometre Kathalani–Kaviani–Nzaikoni Road in Kathiani Sub-County; the 2.6-kilometre Kincar–Airways and Muungano Police Road in Mavoko Sub-County; and the Gossip Phase 3–Mlolongo Police Loop Road, where two kilometres have been completed and works are ongoing.

In addition, the Governor announced that the county has already advertised several roads for upgrading to bitumen standards. These include the 3.8-kilometre Lita–Miti Muonza Road in Kathiani Sub-County, a 5-kilometre section of the Makaveti–Kalama–Kyangala–Iiyuni Road in Kalama Sub-County, a 5-kilometre section of the Ngonda–Katulye–Mbiuni–Kabaa Road spanning Matungulu, Kangundo and Mwala Sub-Counties, and a 5-kilometre section of the Ekalakala–Masinga–Kaewa Road in Masinga Sub-County.

Governor Ndeti reiterated her commitment to equitable and inclusive development, stating that her administration will continue investing in infrastructure to ensure all parts of Machakos County benefit from improved connectivity and economic growth.

She noted that the new equipment will accelerate ongoing and future road projects, helping the county deliver better services and improve the quality of life for residents.

PS Teresia Mbaika Leads Push for Modernization of JKIA as Kenya Eyes World-Class Aviation Hub

Principal Secretary for the State Department for Aviation and Aerospace Development, Teresia Mbaika, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transforming the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) into a modern, globally competitive aviation hub, as Kenya accelerates plans to upgrade its flagship airport.

PS Mbaika joined the Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport, Hon. Davis Chirchir, who chaired a high-level consultative meeting aimed at fast-tracking the roadmap for the modernization and expansion of JKIA. The meeting focused on aligning policy, infrastructure priorities, and financing options to support the long-term development of the airport, which remains a critical pillar of Kenya’s economy.

Speaking during the engagement, PS Mbaika emphasized that JKIA’s modernization is a strategic national priority, given its role as a regional aviation hub and a key economic asset supporting tourism, trade, investment, and international connectivity.

The discussions centered on the construction and optimization of existing infrastructure, with a strong focus on adopting modern technology aligned with global aviation standards. The planned upgrades are expected to enhance passenger experience, improve operational efficiency, and strengthen sustainability across airport operations.

Key result areas identified include increased passenger flow, improved efficiency, enhanced safety, and environmental sustainability, all aimed at positioning JKIA to effectively compete with other leading international airports in the region and beyond.

PS Mbaika noted that demand and capacity considerations will be central to the modernization strategy, as Kenya prepares for continued growth in passenger and cargo traffic. She underscored the need for a carefully structured expansion that responds to current needs while anticipating future growth in the aviation sector.

A significant part of the meeting was devoted to evaluating the most suitable financing model, with stakeholders exploring options that will deliver value for money, ensure sustainability, and provide the best return on investment for the country. Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) emerged as one of the key models under consideration, alongside other innovative financing mechanisms.

The meeting brought together a wide range of stakeholders, including representatives from the Economic Council, Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), the Directorate of Public Private Partnerships (PPP), the National Treasury, and the Office of the Attorney General.

The continued consultations signal the government’s determination to deliver a world-class JKIA that meets international benchmarks, supports Kenya’s economic ambitions, and strengthens its position as a leading aviation gateway in Africa.