From Health to Sports: Governor Natembeya Highlights County Achievements and Future Plans

 

 Trans Nzoia County marked this year’s Mashujaa Day with a spirited celebration led by Governor George Natembeya, who used the occasion to announce several key milestones and ongoing projects across critical sectors including health, sports, education, environment, and agriculture.

The celebrations, held at Cherangany, drew hundreds of residents, county officials, and local leaders, all gathered to honor Kenya’s heroes and reflect on the county’s progress under Governor Natembeya’s administration.

New Mother and Child Hospital to Boost Healthcare Services

At the forefront of the governor’s announcements was the completion of the Tom Mboya Mother and Child Hospital, a state-of-the-art facility that promises to revolutionize maternal and child healthcare in Trans Nzoia. Scheduled to officially open by the end of December, the hospital aims to provide high-quality, accessible care to thousands of mothers and children within the county, eliminating the need to seek treatment in neighboring counties such as Eldoret or Bungoma.

“Our people deserve quality health care within their borders,” Governor Natembeya emphasized.
“With this new facility alongside our fully operational County Referral Hospital, no mother or child should have to travel long distances for treatment.”

The hospital is equipped with modern medical technology and staffed by skilled healthcare professionals, ensuring a comprehensive range of services from prenatal to postnatal care.

Sports Infrastructure: A New Home for Talent and Dreams

In another major development, Governor Natembeya shared exciting progress on the KSh 600 million ultramodern stadium currently under construction. With a seating capacity of 20,000, this stadium is poised to become one of the largest sporting arenas in the region. 

“This stadium is not just concrete and steel. It’s a home for talent, discipline, and dreams,”
Natembeya stated, highlighting the government’s commitment to youth empowerment through sports.

The stadium is expected to host local and national sporting events, providing a platform for young athletes to showcase their talents and potentially launch careers at the national and international levels. Its construction has also generated numerous jobs, boosting the local economy during the building phase.

Education: Nurturing the Next Generation

Governor Natembeya highlighted significant strides in the education sector, particularly the impact of the county’s school milk program across 434 Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) centres. According to the governor, the initiative has increased school attendance by nearly 50 percent, as the provision of milk encourages regular school attendance and improves children’s concentration and health.

“Children are now more active in class and rarely miss school,”
he noted.

Furthermore, the county has increased funding for vocational training centres by 70 percent. This boost aims to equip young people with practical technical skills and entrepreneurial knowledge, preparing them for employment or self-employment in diverse fields.

Environmental Conservation: A Commitment to Sustainability

Recognizing the critical role of the environment in sustainable development, Governor Natembeya outlined ambitious plans to plant at least 11 million trees every year. These efforts focus on restoring the Cherangany and Mt. Elgon water towers, vital sources of water and biodiversity for the region.

“Protecting our environment is not optional; it is a necessity for our future generations,”
said Natembeya.

The governor also pledged to protect local wetlands, home to the endangered Sitatunga antelope, a unique species that relies on these ecosystems for survival. Conservation efforts will include community education and stricter enforcement of environmental regulations.

Agriculture: Safeguarding Livelihoods

Agriculture remains a key pillar of Trans Nzoia’s economy. Governor Natembeya reported that over 10,000 head of cattle have been vaccinated against foot and mouth disease, a critical step in protecting livestock farmers from devastating losses.

“We are committed to supporting our farmers with the resources they need to thrive,”
the governor said.

He also assured residents of continued government support for agricultural inputs and market access to boost productivity and incomes.

Governor’s Cup Football Tournament: Scouting for Talent

In line with his focus on youth development, Governor Natembeya announced the commencement of the third edition of the Governor’s Cup football tournament scheduled to kick off on October 31.

The tournament aims to identify and nurture promising football talents from across the county, with the long-term goal of forming a county football team that can compete in the prestigious Kenya Premier League.“Through this tournament, we want to create opportunities for our youth to excel in sports and build careers,”
Natembeya explained.

Unity, Patriotism, and Tribute to Heroes

Closing his address, Governor Natembeya urged residents to embrace unity and patriotism, reminding them that the nation’s development depends on peaceful coexistence and cooperation.

He paid a heartfelt tribute to opposition leader Raila Odinga, affectionately known as “Baba,” describing him as “a defender of democracy and a true patriot” who has played a significant role in Kenya’s political landscape.

“Let us reflect on the sacrifices of our heroes and strive to uphold their legacy through service and dedication,”
the governor said.

The Mashujaa Day celebrations ended on a high note, with cultural performances and community interactions that reinforced the spirit of national pride and progress.