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.

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.