Leader upgrades Kirinyaga Institute of Technology

Written By:PPS , Posted: Thu, Aug 19, 2010

Kenyan professionals have been urged to mobilize local communities in tackling various challenges that affect them at the grassroots level.

President Mwai Kibaki on Thursday said professionals trained in specific fields should take up lead positions in guiding the nation to higher heights of development.

President Kibaki made the remarks at his Harambee House Office when he met leaders and professionals from the larger Kirinyaga region.

He said professionals were better placed to guide local residents in improving the society and fulfilling existing developmental gaps.

"Development at the grassroots should be spearheaded by professionals who have much influence among community members," said the President.

Commending Kirinyaga leaders and professionals for their determination to lay a firm foundation for future generations, President Kibaki said the Government was keen to unlock the existing economic potential in East Africa and the Horn of Africa region.

"Neighbouring countries are eagerly waiting the completion of the construction of the second port of Lamu particularly Southern Sudan and Ethiopia," he noted.

He urged professionals to work closely with the Government to accelerate development at the grassroots level and to particularly help in identification and implementation of projects with great positive impact to wananchi.

President Kibaki announced that the Government would upgrade the Kirinyaga Technical Institute into a University College of the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology.

Local leaders led by Nairobi Metropolitan Minister Njeru Githae assured the president that more than 1000 acres would be availed for the expansion of the University College.

They affirmed that the upgrading of the institute would enhance training of professionals to spearhead value addition especially in agricultural production in the area.

The leaders said that training of the relevant quality human capital was a critical driver as the nation geared towards the attainment of Vision 2030.

"Kirinyaga is known for producing various quality agricultural products particularly coffee, tea and horticulture. With value addition farmers in the region will obtain higher benefits," noted the leaders.

"Many development projects have been completed in the entire Kirinyaga. Important roads have been tarmacked thus boosting economic activities in the area," noted the leaders.

The meeting was also attended by Kirinyaga Central Member of Parliament Hon. John Ngata Kariuki, Head of Public Service and Secretary to the Cabinet Amb. Francis Muthaura and leading academicians from the region and other senior Government officials.