Governor Urges Development Partners to Collaborate for Effective Resource Use

Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr has called on development partners in the county to enhance their cooperation to ensure effective utilization of resources and successful project implementation. Addressing the need for greater synergy, the Governor emphasized that a collaborative approach is essential for maximizing the benefits of development aid and avoiding redundant efforts.

Governor Mutula expressed concern over the tendency of some organizations to operate in isolation, a practice he criticized as counterproductive. He underscored the importance of partnerships working together to coordinate their efforts and achieve the intended outcomes of their projects. “It is crucial for development partners to understand each other’s areas of operation to prevent duplication of efforts. Collaboration will create synergy, ensuring that funds are used effectively for the benefit of our residents,” said Mutula.

The Governor’s remarks came during a significant event at his Wote office on Thursday, where he witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the county government and two key organizations: the Makueni Development Trust (MADET) and Kitise Rural Development (KRD), a community-based organization (CBO).

In his speech, Mutula emphasized the importance of commitment to achieving set goals and ensuring that projects are executed flawlessly. He described these practices as fundamental to good governance, accountability, and transparency. “It is vital that any commitments made are fulfilled with excellence. This commitment is the cornerstone of good governance and transparency,” the Governor added.

Mutula also stressed the significance of public engagement in governance, asserting that an informed and active citizenry contributes to more responsive and transparent administration. “When citizens engage with their government, they enhance our responsiveness and transparency in resource utilization and project implementation,” he explained. He highlighted the positive impact of civic education in the county, noting that it has garnered recognition both nationally and internationally, with some counties and even the World Bank seeking to learn from Makueni’s approach.

The Governor praised MADET and KRD for their proactive roles in initiating development projects within the county. He encouraged them to remain dedicated to their work and ensure their efforts have a positive impact on the community. Additionally, Mutula proposed that county governments be granted the authority to sign contracts directly with development partners. He argued that this would allow for better control of funds within devolved units, rather than having them managed solely by the national government.

Simon Nzioka, the Board Chairperson for MADET, spoke at the event, highlighting the MoU’s role in empowering local communities, enhancing governance, and fostering community-driven development across the county. Nzioka revealed that MADET’s involvement will address environmental and climate change issues, as well as focus on youth, gender, and socio-economic transformation through various community groups.

Joseph Mwanthi, Coordinator of KRD, detailed his organization’s commitment to agricultural development, particularly in value chain addition within their operational areas. Mwanthi also outlined KRD’s plans to engage in health, water and sanitation, housing, community governance, climate change adaptation, and youth empowerment initiatives.

The signing ceremony was attended by several senior county government officials, including Japheth Mang’oka, Executive Committee Member for Public Participation and Devolution, and Eng. Peter Mumo, Executive Committee Member for Gender, among others.

This collaborative effort between the Makueni County government and development partners marks a significant step toward more effective resource management and impactful development projects. Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr’s call for cooperation and transparency underscores his commitment to improving the quality of life for residents through well-coordinated and accountable development initiatives.