Kirinyaga: In an effort to spur economic growth, leaders in Kirinyaga County have embarked on investment in education, infrastructure, and agriculture to empower the youth to fully exploit their potentials to generate and strengthen the local economy.
According to Kenya News Agency, speaking during a cultural event at Gichugu Technical and Vocational College (TVC), Ndia Member of Parliament Hon. George Kariuki, who chairs the National Assembly Committee on Transport and Infrastructure, said the government was prioritizing skills development and infrastructure expansion as key drivers of economic transformation. Hon. Kariuki highlighted the government’s progress in improving connectivity through the construction and upgrading of over 95 kilometers of new roads across Kirinyaga County.
“Good roads mean easier access to schools, markets, and hospitals. These projects are improving lives every day and laying the foundation for sustained growth,” said Hon. Kariuki. He emphasized that the Kenya Kwanza government remains focused on tangible development rather than divisive politics, adding that the ongoing road projects and agribusiness programs are a clear sign of the administration’s commitment to service delivery.
On agriculture, Hon. Kariuki mentioned that the government is intensifying efforts to promote value addition and agribusiness, creating opportunities for farmers and young people. “Our goal is to move beyond traditional farming by promoting value addition and modern technology. This will ensure better returns for farmers and more jobs for our youth,” he added.
At the same event, Gichugu Member of Parliament Hon. Robert Gichimu Githinji reaffirmed his commitment to supporting technical and vocational institutions, stating that they are critical in preparing youth for self-employment and reducing dependency on white-collar jobs. “Technical institutions are the pathway to opportunity for our youth. Once a young person gains a skill, they can work anywhere and earn a decent living,” said Hon. Gichimu.
He encouraged parents to enroll their children in TVET institutions, noting that the government has invested heavily in modern facilities and equipment to ensure quality training. Gichugu TVC Principal Joseph Kimemia praised both the national government and the Gichugu NG-CDF for their continued support, noting that the institution has recorded steady growth since it began operations.
“In just one year of operation, we have seen tremendous growth. We now have over 600 students enrolled in various courses. This shows that parents and students are beginning to appreciate the importance of technical training,” said Mr. Kimemia. He urged parents and adults willing to acquire new skills to take advantage of available training programs, emphasizing that technical courses are vital for self-reliance and employment creation.
Mr. Kimemia added that the college’s Cultural Day was organized to give students a chance to interact, share ideas, and showcase their talents. “This event helps our students appreciate diversity, build confidence, and network with peers from other institutions,” he noted. Purity Nyaga, a student at the college, said the event was both educational and inspiring. “The cultural day has helped us showcase our talents in music, dance, and drama. It gives us confidence and reminds us that learning goes beyond the classroom. I urge the government to keep supporting technical schools because they are changing lives,” she said.