NAIROBI: 7th June, 2024
Deputy Governor H.E. Njoroge Muchiri paid a visit to the Ruai Street Children Rehabilitation Centre, which is currently under construction. The purpose of his visit was to inspect the progress of the project and to engage in fact-finding discussions with the Sub- Sector and local residents regarding their needs and concerns.
During the visit, the Deputy Governor held a series of consultations with the community. The residents raised several key areas of consideration, emphasizing the necessity for comprehensive development to support the rehabilitation Centre. They highlighted the urgent need for a primary school and an Early Childhood Development (ECD) Centre to ensure that children in the area have access to quality education from an early age. Additionally, the establishment of a vocational training Centre was discussed as a crucial step towards equipping older children and youth with practical skills for future employment.
Health services and a Police Post were other significant areas of concern for the residents. The community stressed the importance of having a well-equipped health Centre to cater to the medical needs of the children at the rehabilitation Centre, as well as the broader community. Ensuring access to healthcare is vital for the overall well-being and successful rehabilitation of the children.
Security and access roads were paramount issues raised by the residents. They discussed various strategies to secure the area, including increased police presence, community policing initiatives, and the installation of security infrastructure such as street lighting. Ensuring a safe environment is essential for the successful operation of the rehabilitation Centre and the protection of its residents.
Deputy Governor assured the community that their concerns were noted and that the county government is committed to addressing these issues. He emphasized the importance of a holistic approach to the rehabilitation project, ensuring that all necessary facilities and services are in place to support the children’s development and integration into society. The Deputy Governor pledged to continue working closely with the Members of County Assembly and the residents to ensure that the project meets their needs and contributes positively to the community.
County Executive for Talent Skills Development and Care Rosemary Kariuki who accompanied the Deputy Governor said Community Engagement was very important as it allows the residents to raise areas of concern so their involvement in such projects is key. She said that once the facility is completed it will help decongest our other facilities. The facility will have classrooms, conference rooms and counselling rooms ideal for rehabilitation of these children.
The Deputy Governor also addressed a gathering of Ruai traders whose market stalls had been demolished to facilitate a road expansion project. He acknowledged the significant impact of the demolition on the traders’ livelihoods and expressed empathy for their situation. He emphasized that the road expansion was a crucial infrastructure development aimed at improving connectivity and enhancing economic activities in the region.
He assured them that the county government was committed to providing alternative spaces for them to continue their businesses. He highlighted that a dedicated team is burning the midnight oil to ensure alternative new market stalls are availed and that the government was working tirelessly to ensure a smooth and speedy transition for the affected traders.
The Deputy Governor also mentioned that the new spaces would not only accommodate all displaced traders but would also be equipped with improved facilities to enhance their business operations. He encouraged the traders to cooperate with government officials during the relocation process and assured them that their concerns and suggestions would be taken into consideration.
The Deputy Governor reiterated the administration’s dedication to supporting local businesses and fostering a conducive environment for trade. He called for unity and patience from the traders, promising that the temporary inconvenience would lead to long-term benefits for the community.
Also present was, Chief Officer Social Services George Mutiso, Area Member of County Assembly James Karanja Kariuki Assistant Directors Fredrick Ogutu and Rosemary Kibathi among other county officials.
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