Mama Ngina Gardens Recreational Park in Thika is set to receive a major facelift after the Kiambu County Government rolled out a leisure parks’ beautification and transformation programme. The county-funded programme that targets recreational parks seeks to create spaces for residents to congregate safely while enjoying nature and fresh air in a relaxed environment, a move that is expected to improve their physical and mental wellness. Speaking to KNA, County Forest Officer Mr. Simon Chege said the park, previously nicknamed Chokora Park because of its popularity with street children, was set for a major rehabilitation process that would see it transformed into a modern park that was beneficial to locals and visitors from other counties. ‘Most Kenyans in urban areas lead inactive lifestyles that are not beneficial to their health in the long run as they spend a lot of time indoors. This is why, as a county, we came up with the idea to provide a place for the community to go outside and be active, as outdoor parks encourage a healthier lifestyle,’ Chege noted. ‘Frequency in visiting parks and recreational areas can help reduce depression and anxiety, while exercising in parks can help reduce stress levels. Statistics have also shown that simply viewing nature-inspired scenery leads to reports of less anxiety, anger, and fear, improving mental health and creating stronger, healthier communities,’ he said. The scope of work includes the establishment of a lawn with green grass, the graveling and layering of walkways for jogging and walking, the planting of various types of trees, and the construction of a public restroom. Chege further stated that the county government had partnered with Thika Water and Sewerage Company (THIWASCO) to ensure that water in the park was available on a full-time basis and that where interruptions occurred for one reason or another, a tank with a twenty-four thousand litre capacity had been acquired to ensure the park was well maintained and proper standards of hygiene were observed. The project is in line with the plan to elevate Thika town into a smart industrial city after Governor Kimani Wamatangi revealed that he had received Sh5.7 billion in the county coffers that would be invested in various infrastructural projects in Kiambu County earlier in the year.
Source: Kenya News Agency