Kirinyaga county has undergone massive infrastructural development in readiness to host this year's Mashujaa Day celebrations.
Roads have been rehabilitated, street lights installed and government offices repaired.
Interior PS Karanja Kibicho said on Tuesday that construction work will be completed by Friday this week.
The upgrades have elicited excitement as many residents say the upgrade will spur economic growth.
Simon Muriithi, a boda boda rider in Kerugoya town, told the Star that the facelift has transformed the once sleepy Kerugoya town into a thriving county headquarters.
He said he is now able to transport his customers even during night hours because of the street lights.
“It’s refreshing to witness Kerugoya town undergoing this transformation. For a long time, its dullness has been driving away investors who opt for Kagio, Ngurubani or Kutus," Muriithi said.
Resident Jeff Kinyua, a trader, said street lights have reduced crime at night. He said he is now able to operate for longer hours without fearing for his life.
“We used to close our grocery businesses at 7pm. But with the street lights, we now stay past 7pm and earn an extra coin. We look forward to welcoming guests from all over the country on Mashujaa Day."
Joseph Njuguna, a driver, said improvements on the road network across the county have made his work enjoyable.
He said potholes have been sealed and new roads are nearing completion.
Njuguna said the asphalt-polished paths and cabro pavements have also greatly reduced dust.
“We used to wash our cars every day as most roads were very dusty. We now don't visit car wash frequently, which has saved us some cash,” he said.
“Much as the fuel prices have hiked, a passable and smooth road network makes transportation easier.”
Jane Kariuki praised the government for involving the youth in its renovation programme.
She said many young people are now making a decent income without involving themselves in crime.
“We are at peace as many of our children are busy all day in various construction sites. The crime rate has dropped immensely. We appeal to the government to absorb them into various programmes after the Mashujaa fete.”
She urged the government to work closely with the county government for post-celebration maintenance in areas that have undergone renovations.
Edited by A.N
