Hon. Peninah Malonza’s tenure as a Cabinet Secretary in the Kenya Kwanza government was marked by transformative development initiatives and robust party mobilization efforts. Despite her dismissal, she has remained a steadfast champion of progress in Kitui, actively engaging in projects that uplift local communities. Unlike opportunistic politicians who thrive on publicity stunts, Malonza has consistently delivered impactful programs, proving her commitment to the people.
During her time in office, CS Malonza spearheaded multiple development projects that directly benefited Kitui residents. She was instrumental in securing government compensation for human-wildlife conflicts, the employment of rangers and cadets, and the establishment of the Kasaala-Tsavo Gate. Under her leadership, critical infrastructure projects, including Kitimui Dam, Mwania River Earth Dam, and WiFi installations in Mutomo, Kitui, and Mwingi, were launched. She also played a significant role in providing relief food across all three Ukambani counties, ensuring that vulnerable families received much-needed support.
Her influence extended beyond her ministry, as she facilitated major development initiatives such as the Kanyonyoo Hospital, Ithiani Market (KSh 50M), Kakongo Market in Mwingi West (KSh 50M), and Kamuwongo Market in Mwingi North. She was also pivotal in securing funding for key road networks, including the Machakos-Kitui road, Kitui-Mutomo-Mutha-Waldena route, and Mwingi-Kamuwongo-Kandwia road, with a total investment of over KSh 425M. Through her efforts, Kitui County benefited from REREC projects worth KSh 900M, the completion of Kabati and Mutomo sub-stations, and the establishment of TVET institutions such as Thitani TVET in Mwingi West.
Beyond infrastructure, Malonza played a central role in party mobilization for UDA in Kitui. She personally funded the establishment of UDA offices in Kitui and Mutomo, ensuring the party had a strong grassroots presence. She organized strategic meetings with professionals, former MCAs, 2022 aspirants, women SACCOs, religious leaders, and youth groups to strengthen UDA’s influence in the region. Her efforts were further demonstrated through initiatives such as the Kuku Kwa Boma; Utajiri Kwetu poultry project, which saw over 82,159 chicks distributed and 200 chicken houses built, as well as large-scale water tank distributions.
Her dedication to Kitui was evident even in high-level engagements. During her tenure, President William Ruto visited the county twice—once during county prayers at AIC Township and another time at Thagicu, where he issued title deeds to landowners. These visits underscored Malonza’s ability to draw national attention to Kitui’s development needs and rally government support for key projects.
Despite her exemplary track record, some opportunists have shamelessly attempted to hijack her initiatives for personal political mileage. PS Jonathan Mueke, for instance, recently staged a PR stunt by “launching” a chicken house built under Malonza’s program. His visit to inspect 11,000 chicks—distributed by Malonza’s teams the previous week—was a transparent attempt to claim credit for work he had no role in. If Mueke were truly committed to Kitui’s development, he would establish his own initiatives instead of riding on Malonza’s success. Numerous groups, including youth organizations, women’s cooperatives, and farming collectives, are still in need of support. Rather than duplicating efforts for self-glorification, he should focus on innovative solutions that create long-term impact.
Malonza’s legacy is one of action, not empty gestures. Her contributions to Kitui’s development and UDA’s grassroots growth are undeniable. As the people of Kitui reflect on their leadership, they will remember those who worked tirelessly for their progress—not those who showed up for photo ops and took credit for the sweat of others.
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