President Ruto commits to transformation of North Eastern region

President William Ruto has completed his four-day extensive development tour of the North Eastern region, covering Mandera, Wajir, Garissa and Isiolo counties.

The President reiterated the government’s commitment to transform the region by implementing key infrastructure projects.

In Garbatula, Isiolo County, on Friday, President Ruto launched the Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project: Isiolo-Kulamawe and Kulamawe-Modogashe roads, which will also include the Garbatula Town loop road.

He said the tarmacking of the 205-km road is part of a broader plan to link Isiolo and Mandera, enhancing access and trade with Somalia and Ethiopia.

He noted that the road will traverse Meru, Garissa, Isiolo, Wajir and Mandera counties, boosting trade and driving economic growth.

“Take advantage of these roads to expand trade with the neighbouring counties and countries,” he said.

The President also inspected the progress of the Isiolo Export Abattoir, a strategic livestock processing hub, that will enhance market access for farmers in Isiolo, Marsabit, Samburu, Wajir, Garissa, Mandera, Laikipia and Meru counties.

With a daily capacity of 300 cattle, 100 camels and 2,500 goats and sheep, the facility will strengthen Kenya’s position in the global meat market.

“We have invested in this facility because Isiolo County is at the heart of the livestock farmers’ community,” he said.

Additionally, President Ruto urged farmers to vaccinate their livestock to maximise the benefits of the vast export markets the government has secured.

He advised them not to listen to individuals who do not keep livestock, saying they have ill intentions.

The President inspected the progress of the 200-unit Isiolo Township Affordable Housing Project and pledged that it would be expanded to increase the number of units and meet the growing demand for housing in the town.

“We are rolling out the Affordable Housing Programme to provide decent homes, eradicate informal settlements, create jobs and sustainably drive industrial growth through increased demand for construction materials,” he said.

Later, he assessed construction progress at the Isiolo County Teaching and Referral Hospital, including the Accident and Emergency Centre, and committed to equip the facility and building hostels for students.

“We have agreed with your leaders that we are going to equip your hospital to ensure that more healthcare services are available to all” he said.

At the same time, President Ruto laid the foundation stone for the Isiolo County Aggregation and Industrial Park. He said the project would provide farmers with access to cold storage, and agro-processing and value addition facilities.

He explained that this would minimise post-harvest losses, boost farmers’ earnings and drive economic growth from the bottom up.

On electricity, President Ruto said the government will spend KSh650 million to connect Isiolo residents to power.

Meanwhile, President Ruto said the government will take stern action against drug peddlers in Isiolo County and its environs, adding that they won’t be allowed to continue ruining the lives of the youth.

“Anyone involved in the sale of drugs will face the full force of the law,” he said.

He asked parents to be vigilant and ensure their children do not fall into the wrong company or be led down the path of drug abuse.

Governors Abdi Guyo (Isiolo) and Mohamud Ali (Marsabit), Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, MPs and MCAs were present.