Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has announced that the formation of Malava Municipal Board is set to begin following the nomination of the chairperson and members of the Kakamega County Public Service Board.

Speaking during a public forum in Malava, the governor said that once the nominees to the County Public Service Board are approved by the County Assembly, the county government will immediately advertise the positions for membership to the Malava Municipal Board.

Malava Town has a population of estimated to be 6,000, divided into 2,920 females and 2,711 males based on the 2019 census.

“Now that we have nominated the chairperson and members of the County Public Service Board, once they are approved, we will proceed to advertise the vacancies for the Malava Municipal Board,” Governor Barasa said.

The governor said the strategic importance of the board in enhancing urban development, improving service delivery and empowering the local population. He encouraged professionals from Malava and its environs to prepare and apply for the positions, noting that local expertise was key to realising the town’s full potential.

“We want to ensure that Malava receives the development it deserves. I know we have professionals here who can steer the municipality to greater heights. This is an opportunity for our own people to take charge and uplift the lives of our community,” he said.

Governor Barasa reiterated his administration’s commitment to decentralising development and making local governance structures more effective. He noted that the establishment of the Malava Municipal Board aligns with the county’s broader urban development agenda, which seeks to strengthen infrastructure, promote investment, and improve the quality of life in urban centres.

Once formed, the Municipal Board will play a critical role in planning and managing urban growth, ensuring that the town becomes a hub for sustainable development and economic activity in the region.

The board will also collaborate with county departments and national agencies to align local urban initiatives with county and national development goals.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By John Ochanda