Kitui County has experienced significant development projects thanks to a strong working relationship with the national government, Governor Julius Malombe has stated. Speaking during the 2024-25 County Performance Contracting Awards Ceremony at Kitui Teachers Training College, Malombe emphasized that cooperation with President William Ruto’s administration has boosted service delivery and accelerated infrastructure improvements across the county.
Governor Malombe, who is a member of the Wiper Party, noted that he remains committed to his political allegiance while prioritizing the welfare of Kitui residents. He explained that close coordination with senior national officials, including the President, Deputy President, Cabinet Secretaries, and Principal Secretaries, has opened up opportunities for development projects that benefit local communities.
“The focus of our leadership is to deliver for the people. We are using all available resources, networks, and expertise to improve service delivery,” Malombe said. He stressed that this approach aligns with the requirements of the Constitution of Kenya 2010, which encourages counties to work in harmony with the national government.
The governor highlighted that the strong partnership has allowed Kitui to host major national events, such as the Mashujaa Day celebrations last October. Hosting the event led to the rehabilitation of Ithookwe Stadium and the adjacent airstrip, installation of street lighting, upgraded pedestrian walkways, and improved road infrastructure. A mini State Lodge was also constructed in Kitui town, enhancing the town’s facilities and overall modern appearance.
Malombe further mentioned that during a presidential visit in November, several roads across the county were commissioned for tarmacking. Key projects included the Kawmwongo–Kandwia Road in Mwingi North, the Kwasiku–Mbodoni Road in Mwingi West, the Ikutha–Mutha Road in Kitui South, and the Kyuluni–Zombe–Mwitika Road in Kitui East subcounties.
In addition, the Governor revealed that President Ruto pledged Sh200 million towards the construction of a Level IV Nzamba Kitonga Memorial Hospital at Mutitu in Kitui East, honoring the late legal expert who chaired the Committee of Experts behind the 2010 Constitution. Other ongoing national government initiatives include the Utalii College campus in Tiva and the Livestock Training Institute at Kanyonyoo.
Malombe also shared plans for the completion of the stalled Kithomboani Market and the construction of a modern market in Kalundu, Kitui town, expected to accommodate 3,000 traders. During the awards ceremony, the Department of Agriculture and Livestock, led by CEC Stephen Kimwele, was recognized as the best-performing county department.
Governor Malombe concluded by reaffirming his commitment to maintaining a cooperative approach with the national government, citing it as a key factor in unlocking resources and development opportunities for Kitui County.
