ENVIRONMENT

Embu County Leads in FLLoCA Project Implementation Excellence

Embu County, through its Department of Water, Irrigation, Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources, has emerged as a national leader in the implementation and functionality of Project Management Committees (PMCs) under the Financing Locally Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) program.

A recent assessment by the State Department of Devolution confirmed Embu’s exemplary use of FLLoCA funds, highlighting well-coordinated and impactful projects across the county. At Kathima Spring, embankments for water collection have been constructed, complemented by bamboo and indigenous tree planting, alongside a nursery of 1,000 climate-resilient seedlings—managed by a dedicated sustainability PMC.

Ngirimari Wetland, the source of River Itimbogo, has been successfully reclaimed, combining greening efforts with critical water infrastructure development. The Kyeni Water and Sewerage system was upgraded, doubling water pressure and extending service to Kyeni North, Kyeni South, and Kagaari South Wards through a 2.4km pipeline expansion and four new tree nurseries.

At Kithimu Market, solar power now supports extended trading hours, empowering small-scale traders—especially women—with greater economic opportunity. Periodic water testing and borehole maintenance further ensure long-term impact.

Embu’s commitment to grassroots-driven climate action and resource management sets a benchmark for counties across Kenya; impetus to funding during PHASE II of the Kenya Devolution Support Program (KDSP).

HEALTH

 𝐄𝐦𝐛𝐮 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐲 h𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 o𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐬 t𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐨𝐧 n𝐞𝐰 𝐇𝐈𝐕 𝐓𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐊𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐌𝐓𝐂𝐓/𝐄𝐌𝐓𝐂𝐓 𝐌𝐨𝐝𝐞𝐥𝐬

Embu County Department of Health officials recently underwent training on Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV (PMTCT) and Elimination of Mother-to-Child Transmission (EMTCT) models. This training coincides with the rollout of new HIV testing kits and updated testing algorithms introduced this year, aimed at enhancing early detection and treatment.

Mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV remains a significant public health challenge, particularly in western and central Africa, where transmission rates are still high due to infections occurring during pregnancy, labor, delivery, or breastfeeding. Despite global progress—with a 53% reduction in new pediatric HIV infections between 2010 and 2020—MTCT rates vary widely by region. Kenya continues to innovate in prevention, risk management, and quality service delivery to address these challenges.

The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation (EGPAF) Kenya supports 12 counties, including Embu, implementing comprehensive, high-quality HIV prevention and treatment programs. These include early identification of pregnancies, tailored antenatal care (ANC) services, and continued engagement through postnatal care to reduce risks of transmission.

Notably, while Kenya achieved 94% PMTCT coverage nationally by 2020, challenges remain. The national MTCT rate increased from 8.3% in 2015 to 10.8% in 2020, partly due to drop-offs in antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence during pregnancy and breastfeeding—periods with heightened transmission risk.

In response, EGPAF Kenya’s multipronged approach under the CDC-funded Timiza90 project focuses on early intervention for HIV-exposed infants and retention models to keep mothers in care, aiming to reduce new infections further. For example, Homa Bay County has seen a reduction in MTCT rates from 16.5% in 2015 to 9.

ENERGY

Data Collection for the Embu County Energy Plan

Embu Energy CEC, Mr. Elijah Mugo 

The Department of Roads, Public Works, Transport, Energy and Logistics, in partnership with Practical Action, has held a two-day Focus Group Discussion (FGD) to gather data for the Embu County Energy Plan (CEP). The session involved Directors from key departments—Trade, Tourism, Investment, Industry Development & Marketing; Health; Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries & Cooperatives and Youth, Gender, Sports, Culture & Social Services—to identify energy priorities and challenges.

The CEP aims to guide planning, improve service delivery, and boost revenue. Ward Administrators and Governor’s Delivery Unit (GDU) officers, well trained for the task, are currently collecting data from households, farms, and businesses across wards.

Attendees follow keenly during the presentation 

Energy CEC Elijah Mugo, while closing the workshop, urged participants to remain committed, noting the plan would inform the development of an Energy Bill to regulate the energy sector. This would enable licensing of petrol stations, gas businesses, and attract investments in solar and other energy plants. Also present were ECDE officers and TVET managers; with the exercise led by Energy Director, Mwangangi wa Mbiti and representatives from Cusum Energy.

DISASTER MANAGEMENT

There's No End to a Good Thing 

Blessed is hand that gives: a victim receives his share of aid

In the quiet village of Kamutungi in Kithimu Ward, the earth gave way—leaving behind broken farms, shattered dreams, and shaken hearts. In the wake of the landslide that thankfully took no lives but uprooted livelihoods, Embu County Government under the leadership of Governor Cecily Mbarire, has again extended a hand of compassion. 

Chief Officer Elias Kathiga, representing the CEC for Public Service, Administration and Disaster Management Emilio Kathuri, stood alongside Disaster Management Director Joe Njoka and other senior officials to deliver relief food to 15 affected households; including bales of maize and wheat flour, bags of rice, and precious litres of cooking oil. For over a hundred people, these supplies were more than sustenance; they were a sign they had not been forgotten.

The people glorify God together and pray for the benefactor 

This gesture followed a similar act of kindness in Gatatha village, Evurore Ward, where a broken spillway had also left devastation in its wake just a week before. Together with the Governor's Delivery Unit (GDU) official for the Ward, Nelson Nyaga, the team delivered not just aid, but the Governor’s heartfelt message that Her Excellency will walk with her people—come rain, come sunshine.

ENVIRONMENT

Embu Launches Phase Two of Youth Climate Fund with Ksh12.82 Million Boost

A section of youthful beneficiaries enjoy lunch during the Launch. PHOTO|Jeremiah Mutuanga 

Embu County Government has launched Phase Two of the Youth Climate Action Fund (YCAF), disbursing Ksh12.82 million to support 67 youth-led climate initiatives. Speaking on behalf of Governor Cecily Mbarire during the official launch on 22nd April at Winter Villa Resort, Deputy Governor Kinywa Mugo emphasized that this phase, funded by Bloomberg Philanthropies, significantly builds on the success of Phase One, which saw 31 groups implement impactful projects such as tree planting, waste recycling, climate-smart farming, and educational murals. 

Deputy Governor Hon. Kinywa Mugo accepts a gift of ripe bananas from young models during the YCAF II Launch

Noting that this expansion not only increases the number of beneficiaries but also seeks to deepen innovation, collaboration, and long-term environmental impact, Hon Mugo took the the opportunity to reaffirm the Governor's commitment to youth inclusion in climate policy-making, describing young people as vital leaders in tackling the climate crisis. 

Chief Officer Youth Empowerment Luceta Gaceri (3rd left, front row) flanked
by Environment officers Robert and James to her right, with other attendees
follows keenly during the presentation of the YCAF 

He urged the youth to form networks, launch bold projects, and engage with county leadership. Appreciating global and local partners, he stressed the importance of collaboration in achieving sustainability goals. The initiative aligns with Embu’s Climate Change Act, advancing grassroots-driven, youth-led environmental governance.

PUBLIC SERVICE AND ADMINISTRATION

 When Blessing turned to Disaster...

...Embu County Government was quick to respond with speed. 

Disaster Management Director Joe Njoka, Ward Admin. Mr. Nyaga and CEC Emilio Kathuri deliver aid to the victims.
PHOTO|Jeremiah Mutuanga 

Following recent heavy rains in this region, overflowing water caused havoc in some topographically weak areas, leading to a landslide at Kamutungi village in Kithimu Ward and flash floods at Gatatha village in Evurore Ward. Thank God no lives were lost, and that by the power of social media, a Governor's Delivery Unit (GDU) officer was able to reach out to the Director of Disaster Management, Mr. Joe Njoka, who through the Department of Public Service and Administration accompanied the CEC in charge, Hon. Emilio Kathuri to deliver some much needed support to the victims.

In response to this WhatsApp message (right), Embu County Governor H.E. Cecily Mbarire was quick to mobilise aid in form of foodstuffs and beddings to the sufferers, an act that amplified the ancient adage that 'A friend in need, is a friend indeed'.

Speaking at the scene, Waziri Emilio Kathuri assured residents that the County Government is in high gear to address land complexities that propagate these kind of disasters; in mitigation to such misfortunes in future.

The flashfloods at Gatatha village (left) left residents devastated.

EDUCATION

Embu shines at the National Drama Festival 2025

Congratulations to Karurumo Vocational Training Centre and Ciangera ECDE for their commendable representation of Embu County and the broader Eastern Region at the 63rd National Drama and Film Festival held in Nakuru County. 

Their outstanding performances in the modern dance and dramatized singing game categories not only showcased exceptional talent and creativity but also highlighted the rich cultural heritage and artistic potential of our county on a national platform. 

In the same stance, Moi High School Mbiruri emerged top with the performance of their play, 'THE CLASSMATES', which proceeded to the prestigious Presidential stage at State House. "Your crisp, child-centered masterpiece on the power of technical education has truly stolen the spotlight. You’ve shown that simplicity—when executed with heart and purpose—can speak louder than spectacle," commented Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire.

Lauding all whose input enabled the three institutions to fly the Embu County flag high, she added, "As an administration we appreciate the good work," commented Governor Cecily Mbarire.

ENERGY

Embu County strengths Energy Partnerships with International Agencies

SIDA's Christian Holinberg speaks at the meeting 

Embu County Government, through its Department of Roads, Public Works, Transport, Energy, and Logistics has hosted a delegation from the Swedish International Development Agency (SIDA), Energia, and Practical Action, led by Country Manager Purity Ndereba. The visit aimed to reinforce ongoing collaborations in the implementation of the County Energy Plan (CEP).

Energy CEC Elijah Mugo addresses the congregants at the meeting 

Speaking at the event, Energy CEC Elijah Mugo emphasized the importance of energy in driving sustainable development, stating, “To achieve our ambitious goals, strong partnerships and support from key donors are essential.” He underscored the need for donor support in data collection, capacity building, and renewable energy projects, particularly in rural areas.

Embu County officials, led by CEC Mugo, in a group photo with the SIDA team 

SIDA's Christian Holinberg commended Embu’s progress and expressed interest in future partnerships. The team had also visited Jacinta, a beneficiary of a clean energy initiative focused on eco-friendly brick-making.

County Secretary Amy Ruria (left) presents a gift to the delegates 

County Secretary Amy Ruria reaffirmed Embu’s commitment to the CEP and requested donor support, citing financial constraints. She also gifted the visitors with locally produced tea, promoting Embu’s local products.

TRADE: EMBU COUNTY CAIP VISIT

A visit to the ongoing construction project of the Embu County Aggregation and Industrial Park (ECAIP) 

MACHANG'A AREA, MBEERE SOUTH SUBCOUNTY 

The ECAIP Inspection Team|PHOTO: Jeremiah Mutuanga 

A multi-agency team of officers from the State Department for Trade, Kenya National Multi Commodities Exchange Limited  (KOMEX), Warehouse Receipt System (WRS) Council, Kenya National Trading Corporation (KNTC), Kenya Export Promotion and Branding Agency (KEPROBA) and the Council of Governors (CoG) having kicked off the assessment and market planning exercise of the ongoing construction works of the CAIPs project, have paid a visit to Embu County.

The team at site

The team was hosted by the CEC for Trade, Investment & Industry Francis Ndwiga, his counterpart for Finance, Prof. Joe Kamaria, Chief Officer for Investments and Embu CAIP Project Manager, Mukami Muriithi, as well as Chief Officers for Trade and Public Works among other County Officials.

The team has also undertaken field assessment visits in Migori, Homabay, Kisii, Busia, Bungoma, and Uasin Gishu. Next stop will include Kirinyaga, Machakos, Kwale, Garrissa, Wajir, and Meru. The team is assessing 13 CAIPs nationally.

Exterior view of Embu CAIP

Besides establishing the progress of the CAIPs, the multi-agency team is keen on identifying priority value chains in the respective counties with a view of devising aggregation and market linkage iniatives to revamp participation tradional markets, and unlock new local and international markets.

The visits also seek to lay out Aggregation Plans and Marketing Plans for the identified value chains and CAIPs implementation besides creating awareness among farmers, traders and county government officials on domestic and international market opportunities. 

The priority values chains for Embu County are Macadamia, Avocado, Coffee, Bananas, Mangoes, Honey, and Dairy. The County Government has ongoing backward linkage programs, including fertilizer distribution, farm input financing, and distribution of certified seeds and seedlings. They have also deployed at least 8 agripreneurs per ward to offer extension services to farmers.

Interior view of the structure(s)

The CAIPs are aimed at boosting production, agro-industrialisation, value addition and economic growth at the devolved units level, and their respective economic bloc. Embu County is among the 10 counties in the Central Region Economic Bloc (CEREB).

The CAIP will serve entrepreneurs, farmers, traders and manufacturers by providing facilities for storage, sorting, processing and distribution of commodities. SDT will offer policy-related support for the CAIPs, including value chain activation, unbundling market access opportunities for value chain actors, and fostering an enabling business environment. KNTC will bring its expertise in wholesale/retail trade locally, while KEPROBA will offer export trade facilitation services. Additionally, the CAIPs will be certified for aggregation, storage and collateralization using the Warehouse Receipt System, providing linkage to markets through KOMEX's Trading Technology System, while ensuring fair trade practices through Weights & Measures, KECOPAC, and KETRA. 

The meeting also resolved the need to develop a robust CAIP policy, unlock funding mechanisms to operationalize the CAIP, carry out targeted engagements with value chain actors and capacity build county government officials, farmers, manufacturers, traders and MSMEs. The CAIP aims to reduce post-harvest losses for farmers, provide equipment for value addition, and boost the county's economy. 

TRADE

Trade Department rolls out a comprehensive Business Data Collection and Management Initiative 

Embu County Government, through the Department of Trade, Tourism, Investment, Industry Development and Marketing has embarked on registration of all businesses operating in Embu, with a view to link them up with tourism and investment opportunities.

To this end, a public notice has been issued and traders are given the assurance of data security: that information they provide on the Embu Traders Integrated Management System (ETRIMS) will be treated with utmost confidentiality. It will be sorely for use by the department, with the trader'(s)' consent. 

FIND DETAILS IN THE POSTER BELOW:

PUBLIC SERVICE AND ADMINISTRATION

Disaster Management 

Embu County Government has procured two new modern fire engines which will boost the County's effectiveness in responding to disasters. 

At Mombasa port

Receiving them were CECM Lands, Housing and Urban Planning Mr. Raymond Kinyua, CEC Finance and Planning Prof. Joe Kamaria and Embu County Municipal Manager, Ms. Catherine Njoki Nyaga. 

The fire engines will enable the County Government to respond to disasters in a timely manner given the experiences the County Government has had in the past. 

The equipments will go a long way in helping in combating problems such as collapsed buildings, fires and floods. 

The Embu Disaster Response Centre where the fire engines will be stationed will be fitted with a state of the art alarm system that besides alerting the firefighters on emergencies will also deploy technology to pinpoint exact locations where emergency response is required.

MUNICIPALITY OF EMBU

Municipality Board members Sworn-In to office

Governor Cecily Mbarire (centre) flanked to the left by Lands CEC Raymond Kinyua, C.O Urban Development, Hellen
Munene Municipal Manager Catherine Nyaga (3rd & 4th left) with the Board 

Municipal Boards, established under the Urban Areas and Cities (Amendment) Act No. 3 of 2019, play a pivotal role in overseeing municipal affairs, formulating and implementing integrated development plans, and setting strategic policies and service delivery benchmarks. 

Board Chairman Eustus Mbogo takes the Oath of Office

These boards are instrumental in driving socio-economic growth, fostering economic empowerment, and ensuring a conducive business environment, security, and public order.

Lands CEC, Raymond Kinyua speaks at the ceremony 

In this regard - The Municipality of Embu - that falls under the Department of Lands, Mining, Physical Planning, Housing and Urban Development has sworn-in to office seven (7) Board members in a ceremony graced by Her Excellency Governor Cecily Mbarire. 

Speaking after the fete she said, "I've had the privilege of witnessing the Swearing-In of the Embu Municipal Board, chaired by Eustus Mbogo. I look forward to cultivating a synergistic collaboration with this Board and assure them of my unwavering support in achieving their mandate."

Here below, the 7 Board members take an official pose with the Governor after the Swearing-In:

WEEKLY HIGHLIGHT

Waziri takes 'Two Bulls by the Horns'

It has been one of the busiest weeks for the County Executive Committee (CEC) member for Lands, Mining, Physical Planning, Housing and Urban Development Raymond Kinyua; who has recently taken over as the CEC for the Department of Environment, Water, Irrigation, Climate Change and Natural Resources, in acting capacity. Singling out last Tuesday as the 'Day of the Week', this is what he says, verbatim:

Proceedings in the 1st meeting

"Tuesday morning I held two consecutive meetings. One was a meeting about Development Control Approvals and Development Control Enforcement. As a county, we've not been doing very well, especially on enforcement of development controls within our municipalities and urban areas. And we have since organized the department in a way that we are going to ensure our standards are held in terms of construction, in terms of building approvals. We have our entire process; we have started the process of digitalization. As of now, we are doing manual development control approvals and enforcement. And soon we are going to go to the media to inform members of the public. We are going to have an advert in the local dailies. We are going to have myself and my team talking about what is supposed to be done by developers so that they can get the right approvals. We also intend to be very particular to quality. So a team of engineers, a team of physical planners will be getting down to urban areas within the next one month and to ensure and to enforce the development control standards. So we have those two committees and I have met them and we have agreed on the flow of the process. We have also agreed on the responsible people and what should be done in order to ensure that people comply with development standards. 

After that meeting, I got a courtesy call from the Managing Director (MD) at EWASCO, Nancy Macharia was accommodated by the chair of Embu-Mbeere Water and Sanitation Company (EMBEWASCO), Mr. Jackson Njama.

The 2nd meeting in progress

We, together with the Engineer Gatuta who is the Director for Water and Irrigation, discussed a wide range of issues, including the challenges the Water Service Provider (WSP) is facing and how the department can support them to enhance service delivery and provision of water, especially in the lower regions. We are still going to continue working together with our WSPs. We are still going to continue ensuring that standards for buildings, standards for sewer, standards for horizontal development are upheld," he concluded.

ENERGY

Embu County in Partnership with WRI to advance Energy and Sustainability Goals

Mr. Elijah Mugo, CEC Roads, Public Works, Transport, Energy and Logistics 

Embu County Government, through the Department of Roads, Public Works, Transport, Energy and Logistics has got into partnership with the World Resources Institute (WRI) to promote sustainable development. A high-level interdepartmental meeting held at Ifad Hall in early March brought together key stakeholders to discuss potential areas of collaboration.

Executives and professionals in a group photo after signing the Pact

A key focus of the discussions was the Embu County Energy Prospectus Plan, which outlines a transition to Waste-To-Energy solutions and the role of sustainable food systems in agricultural resilience. "Energy fuels industrialization, enhances livelihoods, and ensures sustainable development. This engagement underscores Embu County’s commitment to fostering innovation, sustainability, and economic growth," says Energy CEC Eng. Elijah Mugo, while emphasizing the importance of energy as a fundamental pillar of socioeconomic transformation.

Work in progress at Kagunga dumpsite 

One of the county’s major priorities is solarizing level two and three hospitals to cut energy costs and promote environmental conservation. This aligns with the goal of achieving universal access to clean, affordable, and reliable energy by 2030. CEC Mugo stressed that a County Energy Plan would be instrumental in guiding Embu towards a resilient and energy-secure future, aligning with both national and global sustainable development goals.

Another critical area of interest is waste-to-energy solutions. Embu County is exploring partnerships to convert solid waste into valuable energy resources. The initiative aims to address waste management challenges while contributing to clean energy production. The Municipality of Embu, in collaboration with the Department of Environment is actively seeking partners for this transformative project.

FINANCE AND ECONOMIC PLANNING

Public Participation for the County Fiscal Strategy Paper (CFSP), 2025/2026

CEC member for Finance and Economic Planning, Prof. Joe Kamaria

The County Executive Committee (CEC) member for Finance and Economic Planning Prof. Joe Kamaria, together with Chief Officer Erastus Macharia and other senior officers from the department, has engaged representatives from all the 20 Wards in Embu County to get them well versed with what the county government has achieved so far, and brainstorm on the way forward.

C.O Erastus Macharia speaks at the forum 

Speaking at the Embu Talent Academy on 19th February, Chief officer Macharia brought the participants up to speed on both the complete and the ongoing projects from their last CFSP and Budget per Ward. Some of the projects pointed out include: 

1. Water Projects e.g Kyeni Water and Gatene 
2. The Drilling Rig that has already started by drilling a borehole in Kithimu with others in tow 
3. Two new Fire Engines 
4. ESP markets e.g Ishiara, Karurumo and Mwea Makutano 
5. Smart Container Traders' Stalls at Kawanjara and Kathageri markets.
6. Relocation of Canan Market to pave way for the upcoming ksh.800 million Modern Market 
7. Relocation of Runyenjes Market 
8. Completion of the Runyenjes-Meru Buspark; PHASE I & 2 and storeyed Market Stalls
9. Completion of the Exit Route from the Bus Park 
10. New market shades in such shopping centers as Kithimu township and Shakaola Miraa Market in Embu town.

Other major ongoing projects include: The 500million shillings Embu County Aggregation and Industrial Park (ECAIP) at Machang'a in Mbeere South, Kianjokoma Market & Hospital, Kiriari Market, Gategi Level 4 Hospital, Rupingazi-Weru Irrigation Project, Njakairi Land & ECDE center, Kibugu Market & Bus park, Siakago Bus park & Miraa Market as well as the provision of free certified seeds and Artificial Insemination (AI) services.

Addressing the multitude, the CEC touched on the upcoming school feeding program for all ECDE institutions, the upgrade of Runyenjes and Nembure Stadiums as well as Ena, Muraru and Kiritiri Miraa Markets. 

The people follow keenly to the presentation 

Other programs like the recent Governors Cup - an annual event that will keep promoting talent development amongst the youth - and the recent Bodaboda Summit among others. 

He also emphasised on the need for the Governor to keep lobbying for national government-funded projects, considering the fact that Embu County only receives Ksh 5.3 billion from the National Treasury while the county's wage bill totals up to about Ksh 3.6 billion. Mentioning that the Ksh.20 million Ward Fund allocated to each MCA is supposed to take care of such micro projects as grading of feeder roads he said ,"Since counties receive(d) only 400 billion shillings from a Ksh. 4 trillion national budget - which is only 10% of total budget - it was wise to seek more funding for bigger projects like tarmac roads and dams."

The people's representatives present lauded the county government, not only for the projects done and ongoing but also for upcoming ones, pledging to go out and sensitise the general public on the same.

YOUTH EMPOWERMENT

Embu County and Equity Group Foundation train Bodaboda Cooperative Leaders

Youth Empowerment C.O Ms. Luceta Gaceeri
(seated, centre) poses with the Equity team.  

Embu County Government, in collaboration with Equity Bank and Equity Bank Foundation, has today conducted a training session for leaders of Bodaboda cooperative societies at the Talent Academy. The training covered leadership styles, Sacco management, enterprise development, financial inclusion, insurance, and financial literacy, among other financial topics.

C.O. Gaceeri (right) receives mango tree
seedlings from Equity Group Director
Hon. Gatobu

Representing the Department of Youth Empowerment, Chief Officer Luceta Gaceri acknowledged Equity Group’s partnership and reaffirmed Governor Cecily Mbarire's commitment to empowering the Bodaboda sector. She announced that after this training, Equity Bank would extend the program to train Bodaboda riders in each ward.

A training session in progress 

Equity Bank Embu Branch Manager, Teresia Migua, expressed enthusiasm about supporting the sector’s growth and pledged continued collaboration. Equity Foundation Director Boniface Kinoti Gatobu encouraged cooperative leaders to set ambitious goals and develop strategies to achieve them. He also donated mango seedlings for environmental conservation and food security.