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Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. and area MP Susan Kiamba have urged Equity Bank to broaden its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) portfolio to include sustainable water solutions for the region, as part of its commitment to community empowerment.
The appeal was made during the official opening of Equity Bank’s newly relocated branch at the modern Mbau Junction Mall in Wote town an event that drew a cross-section of county leadership and the business community.
Governor Kilonzo, while commending the bank for its commendable CSR efforts in education and healthcare, challenged the institution to invest in water access programs, particularly in rural areas where residents continue to face perennial water shortages.
“Water is not just a basic need it is the foundation of life and development,” the Governor stated. “We urge Equity Bank to consider supporting water projects that will improve the lives of our people, especially in the most underserved communities.”
He also called on the bank to roll out affordable credit facilities targeted at youth in the boda boda sector, enabling them to formalize and scale up their operations.
Makueni MP Susan Kiamba echoed the Governor’s sentiments, emphasizing that strategic CSR interventions in water and youth empowerment would complement ongoing government efforts and create lasting impact.
In response, Equity Bank Managing Director Moses Nyabanda reaffirmed the institution’s dedication to grassroots development. He highlighted current partnerships with farmers, facilitated through agronomists who help improve agricultural productivity, organize aggregation centers, and connect local produce to national and global markets.
Governor Mutula welcomed this collaboration, noting its alignment with his administration’s agricultural agenda, particularly in supporting value chains for mangoes, coffee, and oranges crops that form the backbone of Makueni’s economy.
“These partnerships are key to unlocking Makueni’s full potential in agribusiness. With the right support, our farmers can compete globally,” the Governor affirmed.
The event was attended by Deputy Governor Lucy Mulili, County Secretary Justin Kyambi, Finance CECM Damaris Kavoi, Devolution CECM Nicholas Nzioka, MCAs Kyalo Mumo (Tulimani Ward) and Felix Mateso (Wote Ward), as well as members of the local business community and Equity Bank staff.
Governor Mutula’s push for strategic public-private partnerships reflects his broader vision of transforming Makueni into a model of inclusive and sustainable development one project at a time.
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