Meru Governor Isaac Mutuma backs state lodge plan, says county must match other regions

Meru Governor Isaac Mutuma has defended plans to build a State Lodge and airstrip, saying the projects are vital to the county's development. (Photo: Handout)

By Rachael Mutabasi
Sunday, June 28, 2026

Listen

Read this story aloud

Listen to the clean text version of this article.

Ready

3 min listen

Audio reading is not supported on this browser.

Governor Isaac Mutuma says the proposed State Lodge and airstrip are key to Meru's development and city status ambitions, despite court orders and growing opposition over the planned excision of Imenti Forest.

Meru Governor Isaac Mutuma has defended plans to build a State Lodge in the county amid growing opposition to the project.

Speaking during the 60th anniversary celebrations of Burieruri High School in Meru County on Sunday, Mutuma dismissed criticism from conservationists and political leaders over the proposed State Lodge and airstrip, saying the projects are essential to the county's development agenda.

He said the proposed infrastructure is part of a broader plan to elevate Meru Municipality to city status, adding that a technical committee is already working on the requirements needed to achieve the milestone.

Latest Stories

Mutuma said the facility would enable Meru to host national events and strengthen engagement between the President and local leaders, including the Njuri Ncheke Council of Elders and religious leaders. He added that the project is also linked to plans to host the 2027 Madaraka Day celebrations in the county.

The governor also defended the proposed airstrip near Upper Imenti Forest.

His remarks come amid mounting opposition from conservation groups, residents and political leaders, who argue that the proposed State Lodge, airstrip and golf course would require the excision of part of the protected Imenti Forest, a key water catchment area.

The Environment and Land Court in Meru recently issued conservatory orders halting the proposed developments pending the hearing and determination of a case challenging the planned excision of forest land.

President Ruto, who also addressed the gathering, defended the proposed State Lodge, saying every region deserves equitable development.

"If there is a State Lodge in other parts of the country, why should there not be a State Lodge in Meru County?" the President said.