Machakos County is set to begin Kazi Mtaani Program. This follows the passing of a motion moved by Francis Kitaka Ndalani Ward MCA to make use of locals to maintain feeder roads. The motion was seconded by Jackson Ndaka MCA Tala.
“Cognisant that there are 8 sub-counties in Machakos county and some are vast making it difficult for graders to traverse each ward…Aware the county can get better results by using Kazi Mtaani as well as achieve better results as manual labor will complement the graders and create employment by putting money in pockets of locals.”MCA Kitaka said.
“I wish to move the motion that the county government considers initiating the Kazi Mtaani program by engaging the public in the maintenance of feeder roads with the supervision of resident sub-county engineers.” the Ndalani MCA said.
The motion received immense support from all MCAs present and below are some of their reactions.
Minority leader Judas Ndawa said, “The essence oF devolution was to take resources to the grassroots and what is happening when there is a project in most cases we tender…You will find monies meant to do roads in Matuu or any other place are paid to a contractor who comes from another county…Our youth are swallowing Miraa because they have nothing to do.”
Kyeleni MCA Grace Bahati said,” As a youth, I’m in support of the motion, during campaigns one of the greatest needs we got was jobs… These are some of the opportunities we can give to our young people and can pay bills and help parents.”
Boniface Katiti Muthetheni ward MCA Said,” If we can provide jobs for our people, even mothers and fathers can get some money to pay fees. “
Mlolongo MCA Daniel Ndwiki said, “We know there is a lack of employment in our areas and we have lots of youths not in work and this will provide job opportunities. In Syokimau, Mlolongo ward some youths are turning to criminal activities because of lack of jobs.”
Matthew Ndunda Kangundo North MCA said,’ By promoting Kazi Mtaani will support the initiative in terms of ensuring feeder roads in our wards are perfected.”
Vincent Mutile Upper Kaewa MCA said, “The Spirit of devolution and county government was about social welfare and bringing resources closer to the people. This is an example of bringing resources to the people.”
Francis Kavyu MCA Kinanie ward said, “I rise in support of the motion, I want to request the house when the time for the supplementary budget comes, we need to ensure there is an allocation to make the initiative a success.”
Brian Kisila Mwala/Makutano ward MCA said,” This an excellent motion…This is a double-edged sword, we must come up with detailed procedures to make sure it is done.”
Nominated MCA Ann Mutevu said, “The last time the national government had Kazi Mtaani and it helped our youths so much. It will help our youths and women and they will be busy on this.”
In October, President William Ruto abolished the popular Kazi Mtaani program by the National Government across the country. The president gave the directive saying that his government was exploring better and current employment programs.
