PS pushes for faster completion of CDA projects in Kilif

JACKSON MSANZU-KNA

Principal Secretary for the State Department for ASALs and Regional Development, Dr. Caroline Karugu Kiragu, has stepped up efforts to accelerate the completion of Coast Development Authority (CDA) projects in Kilifi County, as the government pushes to fast-track key infrastructure under the Malindi Integrated Social and Health Development Programme Phase II (MISHDP II).

The PS said major health and road infrastructure works under the Malindi Integrated Social and Health Development Programme Phase II (MISHDP II), including the Mjanaheri–Ngomeni Road launched by President William Ruto in May this year, remain a government priority.

She reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that public investments are completed within stipulated timelines to enhance service delivery and improve livelihoods.

Speaking during the Seventh National Programme Steering Committee meeting for MISHDP II, Karugu noted that while significant progress had been made, attention must now shift to completing the remaining works through enhanced coordination among implementing agencies, development partners and government institutions. 

“While we celebrate these achievements, we must remain focused on addressing the outstanding challenges that could affect the timely implementation and completion of the programme,” she said.

The programme is jointly funded by the Governments of Kenya and Italy and has become one of the flagship development initiatives in the Coast region, supporting investments in healthcare, education, transport infrastructure and social development.

The projects are being implemented by the Coast Development Authority (CDA). Acting Managing Director Mwanasiti Bendera said the programme has entered its final implementation phase, with only two major components remaining before completion next year.

Bendera said the Sh594 million Mjanaheri– Ngomeni Road project is currently under construction and is expected to be completed by December 2026.

“The programme is now in its final phase. As we enter the new financial year, our focus is on completing the ongoing road project and operationalising the new intensive care facilities at Malindi Sub-County Hospital,” she said.

She added that CDA will also equip the newly constructed 80-bed Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and High Dependency Unit (HDU) block at Malindi SubCounty Hospital, which will include four ICU beds expected to be fully operational in the next phase of implementation.