Machakos governor Dr Alfred Mutua held talks with residents and leaders of Ikutha ward in Kitui South constituency.
The event was hosted by area MCA Hussein Mwandia. This was in bid to popularize his Maendeleo Chap Chap Movement as he seeks re-election in 2017.
He shared with the residents his personal story of growing up in a poor city slum, which he said was not different from other regular children growing up in rural areas.
"I am troubled that more than 50 years since independence, we still have parts of this country experiencing lack of clean drinking water, poor health systems, bad roads and many more issues. We need to change the way we do things," Mutua said, Monday.
He urged participants at the meeting to pursue goals that will increase food production for domestic use.
He asked leaders to improve the quality of education and focus on creating employment for young people and trade opportunities.
"Fostering positive growth is what Maendeleo Chap Chap envisions for Kenyans across the length and breath," Mutua said at the event held at The Hotel Ndilis Place.
The governor also held talks with residents in the neighbouring Mutomo town.