By Monica Nashon
Kisii County has unveiled a new Mechanical Unit aimed at enhancing road construction and overall infrastructure development.
Speaking during the launch, Governor Simba Arati said the unit will operate a fleet of heavy machinery to open up and rehabilitate roads across the county.
The equipment includes 20 tippers, two fuel tankers, two water bowsers, two prime movers and two tracks.
He noted that the initiative will help address poor road conditions and improve mobility for residents across various parts of the county.
“In the coming weeks, roads that were once impassable will become a thing of the past as we work to replace them with quality infrastructure,” he said.
The governor added that the project will also create employment opportunities, with about 120 machine operators set to work directly with the equipment.
An estimated 1,500 residents are also expected to benefit through the Kazi Mashinani programme.
Additionally, the county government plans to recruit at least 25 more workers to handle tasks such as sewerage repairs and opening of culverts.
The recruitment process is expected to begin within the next two weeks.
Governor Arati described the launch as a significant milestone in Kisii’s development agenda.
“Today is a day of reflection on how far we have come and a win for the future. We can grow together and move in one direction as the people of Kisii County,” he said.
He also revealed plans to construct a milk processing factory in the county, expected to be completed next year.
The facility will purchase milk directly from local farmers, creating a reliable market for dairy producers.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba, who attended the event, said the machinery will support road expansion and accelerate development in the region.
He urged residents to back leaders focused on development and cautioned against divisive politics.
“We will not allow politics that cause division or bloodshed in our county. Our focus should be on unity and development for the people of Kisii,” he said.