A fierce dispute has erupted over the location of Kirinyaga County’s first Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC), pitting Gichugu and Kirinyaga Central constituencies against each other.
The wrangle threatens to stall the much anticipated project that was expected to expand medical training opportunities in the region.
The row was sparked by a letter dated July 14, 2025, from Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale to Education Cabinet Secretary Migos Ogamba, proposing that 10 acres be carved out from Kianyaga Boys High School in Gichugu Constituency for the KMTC campus.
This decision has angered leaders and residents in Kirinyaga Central, who argue that land, had already been identified near Kerugoya Level Five Hospital, which they believe is the ideal location due to its proximity to a functioning medical facility.
Kerugoya MCA Eric Muchina also questioned the shift, stating that national practice favors locating KMTC campuses near referral hospitals. “Across the country, you’ll find KMTC campuses situated near major hospitals. How can Gichugu expect to benefit when students will have to be transported over long distances to Kerugoya for their practicals?” he posed.
ALSO READ:
Court slaps Developer Ksh13M fine for polluting Ngara Girls’ school environment
In contrast, leaders and residents from Gichugu have supported the proposal, citing the Kianyaga Level IV Hospital under construction as a suitable alternative for student training.
CS Duale, in his letter, defended the ministry’s choice by pointing out the upcoming Level IV hospital’s proximity to Kianyaga Boys High School.
However, NARC-Kenya party leader Martha Karua raised concerns over the allocation process, demanding transparency and public participation in any decision involving public land.
“Kianyaga High School’s land belongs to the public. If there are plans to give over part of it, it must be done transparently. There must be public participation,” said Karua. “We will not accept secret letters that result in land grabs or stalled development.”
Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni, who hails from Kirinyaga, has urged leaders and residents to exercise restraint, warning that escalating tensions could derail a project intended to serve the entire county.
ALSO READ:
Narok and Kajiado leaders open new dormitory at private school in Maasai Mara
“Let’s tone down the rhetoric. We risk politicizing a development that should unify, not divide us,” she appealed.
The standoff now puts the future of the project in limbo, with both sides refusing to back down as consultations continue.
By Benedict Aoya
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
