Deputy President Kithure Kindiki in Mwala, Machakos, on June 13, 2025. PHOTO/PCSThe DP has faced criticism from the opposition over his whirlwind empowerment programmes he is championing across the country, with the source of funds being questioned.
Speaking during an Economic Empowerment Engagement in Mwala Constituency on Friday, June 13, 2025, Kindiki said political interference undermines efforts aimed at improving the lives of ordinary citizens and must be rejected by all development-conscious Kenyans.
“Politicisation of development programmes and projects is a major drawback in the economic transformation of our citizens and must be rejected by all development-conscious Kenyans,” he said.
Kindiki reaffirmed the government’s commitment to empowering all Kenyans through job creation, income-generating opportunities, and increased household incomes.
He noted that small-scale traders are central to the country’s economic engine and deserve dignified working environments.
“Our determination to empower all citizens, create jobs and income opportunities, dignify the daily toil of small-scale traders and increase household incomes for our people is unstoppable,” Kindiki declared.
The DP has intensified his empowerment drives and has been leading a host of Kenya Kwanza politicians in a series of fundraisers to help various groups across the country.
Kindiki said that the government has embarked on the construction of 400 modern and ESP (Economic Stimulus Programme) markets across the country to support the growing informal sector.
The new markets, he added, will come equipped with essential amenities such as cold storage rooms, ICT hubs to facilitate e-commerce, spacious trading areas, and lactation rooms for mothers.
Kindiki said that in Machakos County alone, 17 such markets are currently at various stages of construction.
Among them are the mega markets in Machakos Town and Matuu, with investment costs of Sh450 million and Sh350 million, respectively.
Kindiki also highlighted progress in the ongoing last-mile electricity connectivity initiative targeting 1.2 million new households by December 2025.
He revealed that Machakos County has received Sh1.4 billion
for electricity expansion, with Mwala Constituency alone benefiting from a
Sh550 million allocation to connect 3,600 homes.
The CS said the government is committed to ensuring equitable distribution of development projects, noting that the empowerment engagements also serve as platforms to update local communities on the implementation of priority projects in their constituencies and counties.
“We are building a foundation for long-term prosperity, not just through infrastructure, but by providing the tools our people need to thrive,” he said.
The event was attended by local leaders, women and youth
groups, and representatives of small-scale traders’ SACCOs.
.jpg&w=3840&q=100)
%20(1).jpeg&w=3840&q=100)
