Speed up Modogashe-Wajir road construction, Ruto urged

Mohamed AbdinoorMohamed Abdinoor

An advocacy group has called on President William Ruto to fast-track the construction of the Modogashe-Wajir Road.

The 200kms road is intended to link the Northeastern counties to the rest of Kenya.

But the infrastructure project, seen as essential for economic and social connectivity, has faced years of delay.

Mohamed Abdinoor, the chairman of the Trans Wajir Advocacy Network, expressed the frustration of residents who have awaited the development since Kenya gained independence.

“This project is not just about building a road; it’s about delivering on the promise of equal opportunity and development for all Kenyans. It’s about restoring faith in the government’s commitment to marginalised communities," Abdinoor told journalists at Wajir County Guest House.

The region, encompassing the counties of Wajir, Mandera and Garissa, has historically struggled with inadequate infrastructure.

“The people of Wajir and other Northeastern counties have suffered due to the lack of infrastructure. We’ve endured rough, dangerous and at times impassable roads that have kept our region from realising its full potential," he said.

" We urge President Ruto and his administration to take decisive action in fulfilling this long-overdue promise."

Residents are often forced to endure access essential services in other parts of the country, leaving locals disheartened and viewing these setbacks as part of a broader pattern of neglect toward the region.

Abdinoor said the road would serve as a “lifeline” for the locals, opening avenues for economic growth, healthcare access and improved transportation.

The lack of connectivity has also resulted in economic stagnation and minimal development in the region.

The poor road network has impacted the local economy and contributed to high costs of commodities and services.

“Businesses are struggling, institutions are hindered, and residents are facing high expenses for basic goods. The long journeys on poorly maintained roads are straining the pockets of people who are already grappling with poverty,” he said.

The road was initially slated for construction under the government’s annuity program, a financing mechanism meant to accelerate infrastructure projects across the country.

However, the funding has reportedly encountered significant challenges, resulting in the delays.

The chairman asked the government to explore innovative funding mechanisms or public-private partnerships to ensure the project’s completion.