Sabaki Residents Warn Politicians Against Taking Credit for Community-Driven Projects

By Andrew Mbuva 

Residents of Sabaki Estate in Athi River, Mavoko Sub-county, have cautioned politicians against politicizing and taking credit for development projects initiated through residents’ own efforts.

The Sabaki Residents Association raised concern that some leaders were attempting to claim ownership of key infrastructure projects — particularly road upgrades — that were lobbied for and pushed by the community through the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) and the Machakos County Government.

Speaking during the delivery of cabro blocks and road kerbs from the County Government of Machakos, the association’s chairman, Mr. Japheth Nyambane, said it was unfair for politicians to seek political mileage from initiatives born out of the residents’ determination and collaboration with government agencies.

“We suffered the effects of dust for the longest time, but we went knocking on doors and the county government listened,” Mr. Nyambane said. “As we speak, this is a partnership between the County Government under the leadership of Governor Wavinya Ndeti and the residents.”

Mr. Nyambane lauded Governor Wavinya Ndeti for her inclusive and people-centered approach to development, noting that such cooperation between the government and residents was unprecedented in the area.

“This is the first time since we settled in Sabaki that we’ve seen a government work closely with us. We’ve had many leaders over the last fifteen years, but never saw this kind of commitment. In just three years, Governor Wavinya has demonstrated real partnership with the people,” he added.

Representing the Governor at the event, Machakos County Executive Committee Member for Roads and Transport, Mr. Nathaniel Nganga, reaffirmed the county government’s commitment to continue working with residents to enhance road infrastructure and deliver other essential public services.

Mr. Nganga emphasized that the Wavinya-led administration remains focused on ensuring that every part of Machakos County benefits from equitable and sustainable development.