Tigania West MP dismisses critics, cites water, roads and power gains

MP John Mutunga has dismissed claims that no development is taking place in Tigania West, telling residents that ongoing projects across the constituency are clear evidence of progress.

“Do not allow anyone to mislead you that nothing is happening in Tigania West. The projects on the ground speak for themselves,” Mr Mutunga said.

The MP pointed to improvements in water access, noting that in 2017, residents walked between five and 10 kilometres in search of water.

“In 2017, people trekked long distances looking for water. I became the first MP in Kenya to drill boreholes in schools using NG-CDF funds despite political rhetoric. Today, 46 boreholes are supplying sufficient water,” he said.

He added that the intervention has drastically reduced the burden on learners.

“Out of 137 schools, only four, and I know them by name, walk about two kilometres to fetch water. The rest have water within their compounds. We reduced the distance from five kilometres to zero in most schools,” he stated.

On land matters, Mutunga said lack of title deeds previously fuelled disputes and limited land value.

“There will be no value for land without title deeds. Our people used to travel to Maua or Meru town to resolve land issues, but I brought a land registry to Urru so services are closer to the people,” he said.

In education infrastructure, the MP said his office has constructed 103 classrooms and renovated several others to ease congestion.

He also highlighted environmental and economic initiatives in the ASAL constituency.

“We have planted trees in schools to counter climate change, and students are adopting trees to nurture them. Every year, we issue 100 beehives to 10 groups and provide honey refining machines and harvesting gear to promote apiculture,” he said.

On infrastructure, Mutunga said 160 kilometres of roads have been tarmacked or upgraded since he assumed office.

“I have worked on both county and national government roads to ensure our people can access markets and institutions easily,” he said.

Electricity connectivity has also improved significantly, according to the MP.

“In 2017, only about 24 percent of households had electricity. Today, more than 10,000 out of 27,000 households — about 59 percent — are connected. All markets in the constituency now have lighting,” he said.

He further cited the construction of three ICT hubs at Karumo, KMTC Miathene and Kianjai Huduma Centre, each equipped with 100 computers.

On youth empowerment, Mutunga said, “In the year 2025, I bought uniforms for 39 clubs, 90 rugby balls and 170 footballs. We also supported 60 boda boda groups, each receiving Sh102,500 through harambees.”

He maintained that improved road networks have opened up the constituency and boosted economic activity.

“The improved infrastructure has made it easier for riders to operate, for residents to move goods and access services. This directly benefits our youth,” Mutunga said.