The Second Kenya Informal Settlements Improvement Project (KISIP 2) has begun a series of review and validation sessions for the Bosnia, Kiang’ombe, and Gitambaya areas in Kiambu County. These sessions aim to incorporate stakeholder input into the Draft Community Development Plans (CDPs) to ensure they address community needs.
“The sessions provide an opportunity for stakeholders to assess and contribute to the plans”, said Ms. Ann Kioko, KISIP’s National Representative for the Social Economic Inclusion Component in Kiambu County,
As part of KISIP 2’s Component 2, which focuses on social and economic inclusion, the initiative seeks to improve living conditions and empower residents in informal settlements. The sessions began on January 23, 2025, with Kiang’ombe residents meeting at the Kiang’ombe Social Hall, followed by Bosnia residents at the MCA’s Office. The final session is scheduled for Gitambaya/Fort Jesus residents at Revival Flames Church on January 24.
“It’s important to involve residents in identifying challenges and solutions to ensure the plans are effective. The Pamoja consultant team has analyzed data to guide the planning process and will share findings for community validation”, added Ms. Kioko.
KISIP 2 is also implementing infrastructure projects, including constructing cabro link roads, upgrading murram roads to bitumen standards, and installing solar streetlights and drainage systems. Key projects include 0.6 km of cabro roads in Umoja, 1.772 km of tarmacked roads in Kiang’ombe, and 1.8 km of upgraded roads in Fort Jesus/Gitambaya, along with 241 solar streetlights across the three areas.
Funded by the World Bank through the County’s State Department of Housing and Community Development, these projects are implemented by the County Government of Kiambu under Governor Kimani Wamatangi. The initiative focuses on sustainable development and community empowerment in Kiambu County.
The sessions were attended by key stakeholders, including Kiambu KISIP Coordinator Mr Julius Mwololo, Director of Physical Planning Ms Hannah Maranga, Ruiru MP Hon. Simon King’ara, Biashara Ward MCA Hon. Kimani Nduta, and other local representatives.
By John Kariba