Tharaka University (TUN) today joined officials from the County Government of Tharaka Nithi, the National Government Administration, community elders, and local residents in a public meeting and a consultative meeting aimed at addressing concerns surrounding the public land popularly known as Kathambangiri.
The meeting underscored the importance of collaboration among government agencies, community leaders, and residents in protecting public resources and ensuring that public land serves its intended purpose for the benefit of all.
During the engagement, stakeholders discussed the need to reclaim and preserve the approximately 0.5-hectare parcel of land, which official records indicate was reserved for public use. Residents were encouraged to support the process by providing relevant information that may assist authorities in restoring the land for community development.
Representing TUN, Dr. Linus Mugendi, CoD Social Sciences, and Dr. Urbanus Ndolo, Director Resource Mobilization and University Advancement, reiterated the University’s commitment to partnering with relevant stakeholders in pursuing sustainable development initiatives that enhance service delivery and create economic opportunities for local communities. He noted that, upon successful recovery of the land, the University, in conjunction with the county government, envisions the establishment of a modern bus and passenger terminal that would benefit students, traders, travelers, and residents while stimulating local business growth.
Community members welcomed the proposed development, emphasizing the need to safeguard public assets for future generations and support projects that contribute to socio-economic transformation.
Stakeholders unanimously called for unity, transparency, and adherence to the law as efforts to restore the land to its rightful public purpose continue.
Notable attendees from the national government were Mr. Stephen Mavina, Tharaka South DCC, Tharaka West Deputy County Commissioner, Mr. Kennedy Kipchichir, Tharaka South Sub-County Administrator, and Mr. Alex Karani, among other county and local leaders.
