Mandera Governor Adan Khalif has issued a stern warning to county officials engaging in corruption that their days are numbered.
Speaking on Monday during a farewell party that was organised by county employees for former Governor Ali Roba, Khalif said his administration will also not entertain lazy staff who are not committed to delivering services to the people.
"My government will be frugal in the use of resources entrusted to us. We will go for value for money, a disciplined and responsible public service that is accountable,” he said.
“We are determined to build on the legacy of Governor Roba who is now our senator. And it is for this reason that I want to categorically state that we will not entertain corruption.”
Khalif said that he was aware that as they start the journey of serving the people, expectations are high. He urged for prayers and goodwill to deliver on their pledges.
The governor said they intend to create an environment that will open up Mandera job market with at least 10,000 jobs available for the youth in the next five years.
“My administration will be an equal opportunities employer for all residents without favouring families or clans. We target to create 2,000 jobs for the youth each year jointly with stakeholders and the private sector,” the governor said.
Khalif promised to build on the peace and security currently being enjoyed in the county.
He, however, said that for the security arrangement to continue, there was need for closer working relations among communities and networking with security partners from the national government.
On his part, Roba thanked the residents for their unwavering support that they offered him throughout his 10 years as a governor.
“I don’t have enough words to thank each and every one of you for the support that you have accorded me. We have managed to achieve all with your support, without it we wouldn’t have done much,” he said.
He urged the county employees to continue working with the same commitment and dedication and remain true to the spirt of serving residents equally.
“I have always said devolution is the best thing that ever happened to us since independence. We have made tremendous progress in various sectors," the outgoing governor said.
"As I exit and take up my roles of a senator, I can only do so with my head held high. In Khalif I am leaving the county in a safe pair of hands. I have a lot of confidence in him and I am sure he will not disappoint.”
(edited by Amol Awuor)
“WATCH: The latest videos from the Star”