Nyandarua County Launches Massive Urbanization Drive with Ol’Kalou Cabro Plant
Nyandarua County has kicked off a major urbanization programme, marked by the official opening of the Ol’Kalou bulk cabro production plant in Kaimbaga Ward. Governor Moses Kiarie Badilisha said the facility will cut paving costs for public utilities by over 60%, create jobs for youth, and accelerate the modernization of the county’s urban centres. The project targets over ten major towns and public utility facilities, aiming to make both formal and informal settlements habitable and business-friendly.
The first beneficiary of the urbanization drive is Huruma Estate in Kaimbaga Ward, a former colonial informal settlement now receiving tarmacked roads, a modern sewerage system, solar-powered street lighting, and a retail market housing over 200 traders. The initiative, funded under the Kenya Informal Settlement Programme at a cost of over Sh200 million, will extend to Gichagi Village in Njabini-Kiburu Ward, benefiting over 700 households with similar upgrades. Governor Badilisha highlighted the construction of pedestrian walkways and a modern market as key steps towards enhancing urban living standards and supporting local commerce.
Governor Badilisha further revealed that the cabro plant will eventually serve private citizens at affordable rates, creating a new revenue stream for the county. He emphasized that the urbanization initiative will set a benchmark for managing towns across Nyandarua, ensuring efficient service delivery, improved infrastructure, and sustainable development. The programme reflects the county administration’s commitment to transforming settlements into modern, well-planned urban centres that cater to both residents and businesses.