Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has launched a sweeping climate action initiative aimed at promoting environmental conservation, clean energy adoption, and sustainable livelihoods across the county.
Speaking during a major public event held at Kamiigua Grounds in Kutus, Waiguru unveiled a comprehensive package of community support measures that included the distribution of 5,800 free gas cylinders to families, part of her administration’s ongoing effort to encourage a shift from firewood and charcoal to clean cooking.“By shifting to clean cooking, we are saving over 500 mature trees every year while protecting our women and children from the health risks of indoor smoke,” said Waiguru.
The Governor noted that the meko gas cookers, alongside a planned clean cooking program at Kibingoti Polytechnic, are central to her strategy to end deforestation and promote environmental health.
The Governor also handed over 10,000-litre water tanks to 20 community groups to promote rainwater harvesting and kitchen gardening, enhancing food security. To tackle sanitation, 26 garbage skips and a skip loader truck were distributed, with Waiguru announcing the establishment of a Material Recovery Facility for waste sorting and recycling.
Other notable interventions included support for the Inua Jamii Rupingazi Water Project, targeting 500 households in Njukiini and Murinduko, and the distribution of pipes for the Rukenya Irrigation Water Project to reduce reliance on rain-fed agriculture.
To boost climate-smart agriculture, 60 farmers received dam liners for fish farming and irrigation, along with fish feed production machines. Waiguru also pledged to distribute macadamia and avocado seedlings to 20,000 farmers during the upcoming rainy season.
Additionally, community groups received tents, chairs, and a public address system, while Kirima Dairy Cooperative Society was equipped with chemical supplies and testing equipment to ensure milk quality.
County Speaker Murimi Mutemi and MCAs praised Waiguru for her transformative leadership, with Kabare Ward MCA Dr. Isaac Mbogo stating that the Governor had fulfilled her pledges to empower the people of Kirinyaga.
In a bold stride toward sustainability, Governor @AnneWaiguru is swapping smoky wood fires for LPG—distributing gas cylinders to rural homes. It’s the Climate Action Plan in motion: clean energy, healthier lives