New Meru Governor Isaac Mutuma M’Ethingia has made a myriad of promises to county residents after taking oath of office on Monday.
Addressing attendees at his inauguration ceremony, Mutuma promised to work with other county leaders to forge a united front for development of Meru.
“I humbly offer myself to the people of Meru as a servant leader to offer good leadership, integrity in management of public affairs, transparency and accountability,” he said.
The new County boss promised reforms in healthcare by collaborating with the national government to ensure Meru residents benefit from national health insurance scheme.
“Under this program, the county government will pay for the insurance of the poorest and the most vulnerable residents. Meru residents deserve the dignity of receiving medical care without the fear of financial ruin,” he said.
He also emphasized that his government, together with National government, donors and private sector partners, will prioritize the fight against cancer by equipping cancer centers to aid in research, diagnosis and treatment.
“We must give hope to our people. We shall operationalize the Cancer Act that was passed by the previous regime.”
In collaboration with Athletics Kenya, Mutuma promised to revive the Mount Kenya Mountain running championship to raise funds for cancer treatment. He will also ensure facilities are set out as centers of excellence to promote Health tourism which will earn the county more revenue.
In addition, he said that his government, together with development partners will put effort into ending threats of new HIV infections and introducing programs to counter gender-based violence and reduce teenage pregnancy.
In Mutuma’s tenure, mechanisms will also be put in place to ensure teenage mothers are given a second chance to pursue academic or vocational dreams.
On infrastructure, Mutuma promised to work tirelessly to ensure good road network that will propel economic growth.
On youth empowerment, Mutuma said he will revamp the Meru Youth Service to train more young people in skills that matches modern market demands. Moreover, the Meru Youth service graduates will receive startup kits equipped with the tools they need to begin their own businesses to create over 1000 jobs every year.
