THE BATTLE FRONT

Not by Aggression, but Persuasion 

As 2027 approaches, Embu politics has entered its favourite season: the Great Parade of Aspirants, where everyone is a “people’s favourite” and nobody knows who the people are.

Gubernatorial hopefuls have suddenly discovered that every boda boda rider is a “dear brother,” every mama mboga is a policy adviser and every church harambee is apparently a campaign strategy meeting.

The Senate race is no quieter. Contenders are touring Mt. Kenya armed with handshakes, promises and enough slogans to power Runyenjes for a year. At every stop, they insist they are not fighting anyone—just “persuading the people.” Apparently, even political enemies are now being defeated through gentle persuasion and extremely aggressive WhatsApp posters.

Meanwhile, Mt. Kenya elders are watching the parade with the calmness of men who have seen this movie before. Their advice is simple: “Choose wisely.”

Politicians nod vigorously.

Then they quietly ask, “So… which way are you leaning?”

In Embu, therefore, the 2027 campaign motto is clear: No aggression. No insults. Just persuasion—preferably accompanied by tea, nyama choma and a well-funded convoy.

EMBU CULTURE

Embu’s Big Cultural Date: Leave Your Sofa, Bring Your Appetite!

This Friday, Nembure Stadium is the place to be as Embu rolls out the cultural red carpet for Embu County Cultural Day 2026.

And please, don’t come expecting a quiet afternoon! Come prepared for songs that may move your feet, dances that may expose your hidden talent, traditional foods that could have you asking for “just one more serving,” and stories that remind us where we came from.

After months of preparation by the Department of Gender and Culture and its stakeholders’ committee, the celebration is finally here.

From traditional foods and crafts to folk tales, music, dance, traditional practices and the lifestyle of our people, there will be plenty to see, taste, learn and celebrate.

Whether you speak Kiembu fluently or only know “Twì Ayembu” and “Twì andù amwe,” you are welcome!

Friday, 14 August. Nembure Stadium.

All roads lead to Nembure. Bring family, friends, curiosity—and a hearty appetite!

Our culture. Our pride. Our future.

CULTURAL HERITAGE

 EMBU CULTURAL DAY | 14TH AUGUST 2026

Our Culture, Our Identity, Our Pride.

On Friday 14th August, Embu comes alive to celebrate the richness of our heritage and traditions.

Come Experience the rich diversity of Embu County through culture, crafts, food, folk tales, music, dance, and innovation and the timeless spirit of our people.

Gender & Culture Chief Officer Luceta Gaceri in a gig with the performers during preparations for the big day PHOTO|Ken Nyaga

Twì Ayembu. Twì andù amwe. Culture is our heritage, our pride and our future.

DIGITAL LITERACY

 467 Embu Youth Graduate as Governor Mbarire Champions Digital Future

Graduands with the Governor 
and other leaders 

Governor Cecily Mbarire has reaffirmed her administration's commitment to positioning Embu's young people at the heart of the county's digital transformation after 467 youth graduated from the Youth Digital Skills, Innovation and Creative Technologies Training Programme.

Graduands' parade PHOTO|GPS

The graduates, drawn from across the county, were trained through the Department of Youth Empowerment in partnership with Achievers College of Professionals, acquiring practical skills in digital literacy, cybersecurity, digital entrepreneurship, content creation, e-commerce, remote work and emerging technologies.

Speaking during the colourful graduation ceremony, Governor Mbarire said her administration is deliberately investing in skills that connect young people to real opportunities in Kenya's rapidly expanding digital economy.

The moment PHOTO|J. Mutuanga

"We are not simply training young people to look for jobs; we are equipping them with the skills, confidence and tools to create opportunities for themselves and others," she said.

The programme forms part of the County Government's wider youth empowerment agenda, positioning skills development, innovation and technology as key pillars of Embu's socio-economic transformation and prosperity.

ROADS

𝐄𝐦𝐛𝐮 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐲 𝐋𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬 𝐓𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐟 𝐑𝐨𝐬𝐞t𝐞𝐯𝐞 - 𝐁𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐞 𝐑𝐨𝐚𝐝

Embu County Deputy Governor H.E. Justus Kinywa Mugo, on behalf of H.E. Governor Cecily Mbarire, on 22 July presided over the official launch of the tarmacking of the Roseteve - Billionaire Road, reaffirming the county's commitment to improving road infrastructure.

The event was attended by the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Roads, Francis Ndwigah, and the Chief Officer for Roads, who led the department's technical team overseeing the implementation of the project to ensure quality workmanship. 

Once completed, the tarmacked road is expected to enhance the movement of people, goods and services, stimulate business growth, and significantly reduce dust, improving the living and working environment for residents and traders.

Speaking during the launch, Deputy Governor Mugo said the county government remains committed to expanding its road infrastructure programme through the tarmacking of more roads across Embu, with the aim of boosting economic development and improving connectivity for residents.

NURTURING THE FUTURE

'Torchlight Dreamers' Ignite Young Talent in Embu Cultural Showcase

Embu County came alive on April 25, 2026, as the County Government, under Governor Cecily Mbarire, hosted the vibrant Torchlight Dreamers Showcase, celebrating children’s creativity and promoting a strong reading culture.

The event featured a screening of Torchlight Dreamers alongside captivating performances of the award-winning dances Little Feet Big Fight and My Cat My Friend by Embu County primary school pupils who recently shone at the national stage.

Education Chief Officer Peter Njagi Hudson lauded the initiative, noting its role in nurturing talent and strengthening libraries as safe, educational community hubs. Library staff played a central role in coordinating activities that encouraged children to register as members and embrace reading.

Organised in partnership with Embu Buzz Theatre, the event brought together parents, educators, and multiple county departments, reinforcing collaboration across education, culture, and youth development.

Stakeholders pledged to sustain the programme annually, positioning it as a key platform for empowering young creatives and fostering holistic child development in Embu County.

EDUCATIONAL PROMOTION

Embu Governor Elevates Education Sector with Promotion of Teachers and Trainers

A vibrant ceremony at Embu Stadium marked a significant milestone in the transformation of education in Embu County, as Governor Cecily Mbarire presided over the promotion of more than 560 ECDE teachers and Vocational Training Centre (VTC) instructors.

The colourful event underscored the county administration’s steadfast commitment to strengthening the education sector through strategic investment in early childhood development and vocational training. Governor Mbarire reaffirmed that a strong educational foundation is key to nurturing well-rounded individuals and securing future success for learners.

She highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance access, equity, and quality in education, noting that empowering educators remains central to achieving these goals. The promotions, she said, are part of a broader agenda to motivate the workforce, support career progression, and boost service delivery.

The initiative is expected to invigorate the education sector by fostering professionalism, enhancing skills development, and advancing the county’s vision of self-reliance and job creation.

TOWN CLEAN-UP

Embu County Steps Up CBD Clean-Up Amid Heavy Rains

Residents of Embu Town have witnessed a renewed commitment to cleanliness and public health after a major clean-up exercise was conducted across the Central Business District. The initiative, undertaken by the Municipality of Embu and spearheaded by the Department of Lands, Mining, Physical Planning, Housing and Urban Development under the leadership of Raymond Kinyua, saw teams take to the streets to clear waste and unclog blocked drainage systems.

The exercise, led by CECm Kinyua alongside Municipal Manager Catherine Nyaga and supported by the Municipal Board and officers from Environment and Public Health, comes at a critical time when heavy rains have threatened sanitation and mobility within the town.

This proactive intervention reflects the broader vision of Cecily Mbarire, whose administration continues to prioritise a clean and healthy environment. By tackling drainage challenges head-on, the county is safeguarding residents from flooding and disease.

Indeed, Embu is living up to the timeless adage that 'Cleanliness is second to Godliness'.

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.