READING CULTURE

Embu Revives Reading Culture with Mobile Library Comeback

Embu County has ignited a fresh wave of intellectual growth following the grand resumption of its mobile library services, a flagship initiative under the Department of Education. Embu Governor, Her Excellency Hon. Cecily Mbarire has had the department repositioned as a champion of knowledge access; rolling out monthly book distributions to schools and tertiary institutions across the county.

Speaking while sending out the mobile library bus, Chief Officer Peter Njagi Hudson hailed the programme as a transformative step toward nurturing a vibrant reading culture among learners. He affirmed the county’s commitment to bridging resource gaps and inspiring academic excellence.

Institutions already benefiting include Hunter College of Health Sciences, Fidenza School of Nursing, Kangaru School, and several primary schools, with more set to be reached in the ongoing exercise.

The colourful relaunch signals a renewed dedication to education empowerment, ensuring that books—and the opportunities they unlock—reach every corner of Embu, fostering a generation that is informed, inspired, and ready to shape the future.

SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT

Embu Steps Up War on Waste with Strategic 2032 Plan

Embu County has intensified efforts to tackle solid waste challenges, with the County Executive Committee member (CECm) for Lands, Mining, Physical Planning, Housing and Urban Development, Raymond Kinyua, leading the charge on behalf of Governor Cecily Mbarire.

Speaking during the official opening of a three-day training workshop, Waziri Raymond highlighted the county’s commitment to sustainable waste management through strong partnerships and coordinated departmental action. He revealed that, with support from GIZ, the county has developed a comprehensive Solid Waste Management Plan set to guide operations up to 2032.

Accompanied by his departmental chief officers, directors, the municipality manager and key stakeholders from Public Health and Environment sectors, he noted, "Waste is not waste until it's wasted."

The plan is expected to streamline waste handling, enhance environmental conservation, and improve public health outcomes, marking a significant step in transforming Embu into a cleaner and more sustainable county.

INFRASTRUCTURE

Governor Mbarire’s Road Projects Boost Infrastructure in Manyatta

Embu Governor H.E Cecily Mbarire’s development agenda has scored another milestone as key roads in Manyatta Constituency successfully passed technical inspections. The exercise covered the Itabua–Embu Airstrip Road, Kirigi–Mutunduri Road, Kangaru–Muthigini–Kathangari Road, and several KRB roads in Nginda Ward, including Nguviu–Kangethia, Kathangariri–Kangethia, and Kibugu–Kirurumwe Primary Road.

Technical teams, alongside the Governor’s office, community Project Management Committees, and local leaders, verified that the works meet the required standards and approved Bills of Quantities. Contractors in Kirimari Ward further extended some road sections by 200 meters, a goodwill gesture welcomed by residents.

The improved roads are set to enhance access to schools, markets, and health facilities, while improving safety and transport efficiency. Residents lauded Governor Mbarire for prioritizing infrastructure, underscoring her administration’s commitment to quality, accountability, and impactful development across Embu County.

STELLAR LEADERSHIP

Governor Mbarire Shines Nationally as ‘Mbegu na Karinda’ Reaches Mbeere North Farmers

While Cecily Mbarire continued to make Embu County shine at the national level, the county’s transformative ‘Mbegu na Karinda’ Season 2 programme rolled on in Muminji and Nthawa Wards of Mbeere North, reaching hundreds of farming households with certified maize and bean seeds.

The exercise was presided over by Deputy Governor Kinyua Mugo alongside Agriculture CECM John Nyaga and other senior county officials, who assured farmers that the administration remains firmly committed to strengthening food security and improving livelihoods.

Speaking through her Facebook page after attending a high level meeting with President William Samoei Ruto and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki during the UDA–ODM Joint Parliamentary Group Meeting, Governor Mbarire, who is also the chairman to the ruling party (UDA) reaffirmed the government’s dedication to the national development agenda.

"The broad based government continues to prioritise unity, economic stability, agricultural productivity, road expansion and accessible healthcare." She noted.

Her leadership both in Embu and nationally positions the county as a model of focused development, benefiting farmers, traders and future generations across the region.

SEEDS FOR POSTERITY

Mbegu na Karinda: A Seed of Hope for Embu Farmers

Hundreds of farming households across Embu County are set to benefit from the week-long seed distribution programme dubbed “Mbegu na Karinda.” 

Led by Governor Cecily Mbarire, the initiative has seen certified maize and bean seeds delivered to farmers in all the 20 wards across the county’s five sub-counties. 

In total, over 32,000 households

are expected to receive the vital farm inputs during the seven-day exercise. 

The programme aims to boost food production, cushion farmers against rising input costs, and inspire renewed hope as the planting season approaches.

YOUNG TALENT

Little Stars Shine at Embu Drama Festival

Young learners from Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) centres across Embu County lit up the stage with colour and confidence during the County Drama Festivals at Seven Folks Primary School. Parents, teachers and adjudicators watched with smiles as the little stars sang lively singing games, presented beautiful choral pieces and delivered brave solo performances.

The festival showed how nurturing young talent can shape bright futures. Under the leadership of Governor Cecily Mbarire, the county has strengthened ECDE learning by improving classrooms, supporting teachers and encouraging creative activities that build teamwork and confidence.

After the exciting contest several centres earned the honour of representing Embu at the regional festivals. Ciangera ECDE led the singing game category with eighty-five points followed by Nyangwa ECDE with eighty-three. Kigaa ECDE topped choral while Embu ECDE shone in solo.

The governor praised learners, teachers and parents saying every child deserves a chance to discover their gift and dream big for tomorrow. Embu proudly cheers its young stars as they step forward to shine beyond the county. 

HEALTH IS WEALTH

Hope Rises in Kariru as Dispensary Nears Completion

The dream of accessible healthcare is drawing closer for residents of Kariru in Kyeni South after the County Public Works team conducted a technical inspection of the Kariru Dispensary Phase One.

For years, families in this quiet community have travelled long distances to seek medical care in Kathunguri or Karurumo, often in moments of urgency when every second matters. Mothers carrying sick children, elderly residents battling illness, and expectant mothers have endured the strain of the journey simply to receive basic treatment.

But hope is now on the horizon.

Once operational, Kariru Dispensary will bring essential healthcare services right to the doorstep of the community, transforming lives and restoring dignity to residents who have long waited for accessible medical care.

Guided by the belief that Health is Wealth, Embu County Government, under the leadership of Governor Cecily Mbarire, continues to prioritize improved access to healthcare. By fast-tracking the completion and operationalization of the facility, the county is taking a meaningful step toward ensuring that every resident can receive timely and life-saving medical attention close to home.

GIS POLICY

𝐄𝐌𝐁𝐔 𝐂𝐎𝐔𝐍𝐓𝐘 𝐀𝐃𝐕𝐀𝐍𝐂𝐄𝐒 𝐋𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐌𝐀𝐍𝐀𝐆𝐄𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐇 𝐃𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐋𝐎𝐏𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐎𝐅 𝐂𝐎𝐔𝐍𝐓𝐘 𝐆𝐈𝐒 𝐏𝐎𝐋𝐈𝐂𝐘

NLC's Tony Waweru
at the forum 

The County Government of Embu has taken a bold step towards strengthening land governance and planning through the development of a County Geographic Information System GIS Policy.

Lands CEC Raymond Kinyua (right) with senior officers follow the presentation keenly 

The policy is being developed with technical support from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations FAO, marking a significant milestone in enhancing data driven decision making in land management and sustainable development within the county.

The official opening of the stakeholders workshop was presided over by CECM for Lands, Mining, Housing, Physical Planning and Urban Development, Raymond Kinyua, who underscored the importance of establishing a unified and integrated spatial data framework to improve service delivery, physical planning, mining management and natural resource governance.

The forum brought together key stakeholders in the land sector including representatives from national government agencies, surveyors, planners, environmental experts, community representatives and development partners. Their participation is expected to enrich the policy framework and ensure inclusivity, transparency and sustainability in land administration.

Speaking during the workshop, the CECM noted that the GIS Policy will streamline land records management, enhance mapping accuracy, reduce land related disputes and promote informed planning and investment decisions across Embu County.

The initiative reflects the visionary and transformative leadership of Governor Cecily Mbarire, whose administration has prioritized modernization, digitization and efficient public service delivery. Under her stewardship, Embu County continues to embrace innovation and forge strategic partnerships that drive socioeconomic transformation.

By investing in a robust GIS framework, the County Government is laying a strong foundation for orderly urban growth, environmental conservation, infrastructure development and transparent land governance, positioning Embu as a model county in technology driven planning and sustainable development.

Embu County remains committed to inclusive stakeholder engagement and evidence based planning as it charts a progressive, accountable and digitally empowered future.

HEALTHY TRADE

COUNTY EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBER FOR TRADE VOUCHES FOR HEALTHY TRADE 

Retail Traders Committee during the meeting 

The County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Trade, Tourism, Investment, Industry Development and Marketing, Mr. Elijah Mugo, has begun his tasks on a high note, engaging key stakeholders to strengthen partnerships that benefit the people of Embu County.

CECm Mugo

Mr. Mugo hosted a five-member delegation from Our Lady of Lourdes (OLL) Karira Mission Hospital – Mwea, led by Dr. Gerard Ireri, during a courtesy call to his office. The team briefed the CECM on plans by the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) Embu Chapter, in collaboration with OLL’s Management Board, to host a dinner on March 13, 2026. The event will sensitize the business community on OLL’s growth from a Level 4 to a Level 5 hospital and foster closer collaboration with the County Government.

The hospital’s Embu branch, located at Catholic House, has been upgraded to include a modern theatre, an Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and an Oncology department. The expansion will enable hundreds of patients who previously travelled weekly to Mwea to access specialized services closer to home.

Among those expected at the dinner are representatives from the Embu County Revenue Authority (ECRA), county security administration officers, KUPPET, KNUT, investors, Jua Kali leaders and other stakeholders.

Later, the CECM met leaders of Mitumba retail traders, led by Chairman James Njiru. He assured them that the County Government has issued a seven-day notice, effective February 20, 2026, requiring wholesale traders to operate strictly as wholesalers or cease operations, reaffirming the government’s commitment to fair trade and protection of local businesses.

INSTALLATION OF SOLAR LIGHTING A GREAT BOOST TO BUSINESS IN EMBU TOWN

Embu County Governor, Hon. Cecily Mbarire has announced the completion of a new solar street lighting project in Kirimari Ward, aimed at boosting security and supporting economic activity during evening hours.

The project involved the installation of solar-powered street lights along Biashara Street, behind Magunas Dallas supermarket, and at the busy Miraa Market. The initiative is part of the county government’s broader plan to improve safety and create a more enabling environment for traders and residents.

Speaking through a Facebook post, Governor Mbarire said the lighting will allow hundreds of traders and shoppers to conduct business safely and conveniently after dusk. 

The move is expected to directly benefit more than 300 traders operating in the area, alongside hundreds of residents who rely on the market and surrounding streets daily.

"The solar-powered system was selected to ensure sustainability and reduce electricity costs while providing reliable lighting. The governor affirmed that similar projects will soon be rolled out in other parts of Embu, emphasizing that the security of residents remains paramount," says the Governor.

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.