Meru County is set to witness a major transformation as plans to establish a State Lodge and golf course on a portion of Imenti Forest take shape. The 50-acre site, located a few kilometres from Meru Town, was recently inspected by Governor Isaac Mutuma, Deputy Governor Linda Kiome-Gitonga, Forestry Principal Secretary Gitonga Mugambi, and North Imenti MP Rahim Dawood. The initiative, endorsed by President William Ruto, aims to enhance Meru’s profile as it pursues city status, while also stimulating the county’s tourism and agricultural sectors.
The proposed development, which will occupy part of the forest home to elephants and other wildlife, is part of a broader strategy to improve infrastructure in the region. Governor Mutuma emphasized that the State Lodge, golf course, and a planned airstrip are key requirements for Meru’s city upgrade. These facilities will create opportunities for economic growth and enable us to host the President and his entourage with pride, he said. PS Mugambi added that the airstrip would attract investors by providing efficient travel options, addressing a limitation that has historically slowed commercial expansion despite the county’s economic potential.
Reactions among residents have been mixed. Supporters argue the project will generate jobs, boost tourism, and attract more businesses to the area. Conservationists, however, have raised concerns about the environmental impact on Imenti Forest, which serves as a vital wildlife habitat. As county authorities move forward with plans to excise land for the developments, careful management will be crucial to balance ecological preservation with economic ambitions. The coming months will reveal how this bold project influences Meru’s journey toward city status and its broader regional significance.