Transformative Land Use for Economic Growth in Murang’a County
The County Government of Murang’a is taking bold steps towards economic transformation by utilizing approximately 1,400 acres of land acquired from Delmonte Company. The plan is to establish industries that will bolster the local economy, enhance value addition to farm produce, and generate employment for thousands of youth in the area.
Governor Irungu Kang’ata has confirmed that the local county assembly has adopted a comprehensive master plan for the strategic utilization of the land. The vision is to support industrial development while also providing essential public amenities.
Industrial Development and Employment Opportunities
A significant portion of the land is earmarked for the development of factories. This move is aimed at promoting value addition of agricultural products, which will, in turn, create numerous job opportunities for the local youth. The proximity of the land to Thika enhances its potential as a hub for agro-industrial activities in the region.
Governor Kang’ata mentioned that they are in communication with the state department of lands and physical planning to conduct a detailed survey of the land. Formal approval for public use has been solicited from the National Lands Commission.
Through these industrial developments, the county’s economy is expected to thrive, with many locals securing employment in the newly established factories. The governor highlighted the importance of these developments to the residents of Murang’a, noting the multitude of regional benefits.
Upcoming Developments and Investments
Currently, an eye and dental hospital have been constructed on the same land, along with plans by the National Government to develop 1,920 affordable housing units. Once the land use approval process is finalized, an investor conference is expected to take place by mid-next year, aiming to attract credible investors for the industry setup.
The process may seem lengthy, but it is projected that within two years, the factories focusing on adding value to local farm produce will be operational. Opportunities will be prioritized for young people studying artisan courses in local institutions to work on the construction of these industries.
Detailed Master Plan for Allocated Land
The master plan, recently adopted by the Murang’a county assembly, designates 713 acres specifically for industrial development, which includes 432 acres for export processing zones dedicated to local manufacturing investors. Hazardous industries are allocated 69 acres, while 87 acres will be used for packaging and assembly plants, with an additional 120 acres for processing industries.
Furthermore, 71.19 acres of land are proposed to host a specialized Level-6 teaching and referral hospital, which will significantly enhance medical training and advanced healthcare services in the region.
Educational and Residential Developments
In response to the congestion in nearby schools, seven acres are reserved for a primary school designed to accommodate an estimated 5,000 learners. Additionally, local residents will benefit from 35 acres allocated for residential developments.
Recreational and Administrative Zones
To nurture young talents, a stadium with a seating capacity of approximately 30,000 people is planned on five acres. An additional 56 acres will be dedicated to a recreational park adjacent to a dam along the Makindi River.
The proposed master plan also allocates around 15 acres for county government offices, a fire station, Ardhi House, and public administration areas. Business zones will cover 43 acres, while two acres are set aside for open-air markets to support small-scale traders and reduce hawking along roadside areas.
This comprehensive plan reflects a promising future for Murang’a County, aimed at promoting economic growth, enhancing living standards, and providing robust infrastructure to support various sectors. By implementing such a visionary strategy, Murang’a County is positioning itself as a formidable player in regional development and industrialization.
