Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has firmly declared that she will not be retiring from politics, even after her current term ends in 2027.
In her first public appearance since missing out on the Deputy President’s post in the 2022 general elections on Tuesday November 19,2024, Waiguru addressed residents and reiterated her commitment to public service, reassuring them that her political journey was far from over.
Speaking to a large crowd in Kirinyaga County, Waiguru said, “I am not quitting politics. I am a go-getter, and my journey in public service will continue even after my term as governor ends in 2027. I do not engage in public fights or unnecessary drama, but I will remain focused on the needs of our people and the development of our county.”
Waiguru’s comments come after her absence from the limelight following the election of Kithure Kindiki as the third Deputy President of Kenya.
Many had speculated about her future in politics, especially given the bruising defeat she faced in her bid for the deputy president position.
However, Waiguru made it clear that her political aspirations were not derailed by the outcome of the 2022 elections.
In her address, the governor also emphasized her vision for Kirinyaga, a region known for its agricultural potential.
She took the opportunity to woo investors, urging them to explore opportunities in value addition in key crops such as rice, tomatoes, and coffee.
She stressed that Kirinyaga had untapped potential, particularly in agricultural processing, and called on investors to establish businesses that would benefit from the county’s rich agricultural resources.
“We have immense potential in agriculture especially in rice. Kirinyaga county is the only part where pishori rice is grow,” Waiguru said.
“Our farmers grow some of the best rice like basmati, tomatoes, and coffee in the country, but we are not fully exploiting the opportunities for value addition. We need to process these products locally to add value and create jobs. I invite investors to come and work with us to take this industry to the next level.”
Additionally, the governor highlighted the need for improved financial inclusion in the county.
She called on financial institutions to set up shop in Kirinyaga, ensuring that residents had better access to banking services and financial support to grow their businesses and improve their livelihoods.
“Our people need financial services that are accessible and affordable,” Waiguru said. “By encouraging financial institutions to open branches in the county, we can boost the local economy and empower our residents to access loans, savings, and other services that are essential for growth.”
Despite the political turbulence of the past few years, Waiguru has maintained a steady focus on regional development.
Her message to residents was one of optimism, resilience, and continued service to the people of Kirinyaga.
As her tenure progresses, it is clear that she remains committed to enhancing the county’s agricultural sector, advocating for more infrastructure development, and supporting local businesses to ensure long-term growth and prosperity.
In conclusion, Governor Anne Waiguru’s statement regarding her future in politics underscores her enduring ambition and determination to serve her constituents.
While her time as governor may come to an end in 2027, her aspirations in the political arena remain strong, as she continues to focus on developing Kirinyaga and advocating for the growth of Kenya’s agricultural economy.
