Businessman and politician Dr Augustus Muli has called on politicians, investors, and community leaders to work together in uplifting the living standards of Kenyans, saying economic empowerment at the grassroots is the true measure of national development.
Speaking at The Woods Restaurant, Bar and Grill in Kitui Town, Dr Muli, who is the NLP Party Leader, National Anzauni Patron, and Founder of Kyalo Kya Maendeleo—said the country will only achieve global competitiveness if leaders deliberately invest in empowering local communities.
Dr Muli noted that Kenya’s aspiration to reach the economic standards of countries such as Singapore, as often emphasized by the Head of State, can only be realised through inclusive growth that prioritises ordinary citizens.
Addressing a gathering of more than 500 people, drawn from established business owners and the boda boda sector, Dr Muli said the time has come for both local and national leaders to move beyond politics and engage in honest conversations about job creation, enterprise development, and sustainable livelihoods.
“We must deliberately create opportunities for our people. When locals are empowered economically, the nation automatically grows,” he said.
During the forum, Dr Muli also announced plans to re-open Cycle Three of the Kyalo Kya Maendeleo Women Modern Basketry Project, an initiative aimed at producing baskets for the international market and securing ready overseas buyers. He revealed that in previous cycles, participating women earned up to KSh 4,500 per week, providing a stable income source for many households.
The remarks come barely a week after Dr Muli officially opened The Woods Restaurant, Bar and Grill, a world-class hospitality facility located along the Kitui–Kibwezi Highway, just metres from the Kaveta Roundabout. The establishment boasts state-of-the-art facilities, internationally trained chefs, and ample parking, positioning it as one of the most modern hospitality investments in Kitui Town.
Dr Muli said the investment reflects his belief that private enterprise, when aligned with community-focused initiatives, can play a critical role in driving local economic transformation.
