There were celebrations on Thursday in Eldas, Wajir County, after Eldas South Sub-County was fully inaugurated.
The inauguration was led by Cabinet Secretary-Interior and National Administration Kithure Kindiki who was the chief guest.
Host MP Aden Keynan, Wajir County Governor Ahmed Abdullahi, Senator Mohamed Abass, Fatuma Jehow (Woman Representative ), and Adan Daud (MP Wajir East) were also present.
Others were Mohamed Farah (Wajir West), Mohamed Adow (Wajir South), Abdille Yussuf (Speaker, Wajir County Assembly).
Regional administration and security officials led by the Regional Commissioner, John Otieno and a host of MCAs from Wajir County also witnessed the event which saw Simon Mokua officially promoted to a deputy County Commissioner.
Speaking during the colourful ceremony, CS Kindiki said the government was determined to accelerate development at the grassroots level noting that inaugurating new sub-counties was one way of doing that.
“I want to appreciate the work that has already been done as far as putting up infrastructure is concerned. As leaders both from the National and County we will work round the clock to make sure that everything goes on smoothly and that our people start enjoying development programmes right here,” he said
He urged residents to continue cooperating with security agencies by volunteering information that would help end terror attacks noting that development and security go hand in hand.
On his part, MP Keynan thanked the national government for finally fulfilling its pledge of elevating the sub-county.
He said the establishment and operationalization of the new administrative unit mark a significant milestone in the areas of local governance
He promised to scale up security initiatives, provide imperative government services, harness infrastructural development and foster a stronger connection and coordination between the government and the locals.
“ This is not just a new administrative area, it's a beacon of hope and opportunity for us all. Let's embrace this exciting opportunity as we embark on a journey towards building a landmark foundation for the growth and development of a better tomorrow,” he said.
He went on:
“This landmark breakthrough underscores our joint commitment as local leaders with the national government to fostering community development, enhancing the quality of life through streamlined administration and effectively addressing the unique challenges of the locals by availing quality government services close to them."
On his part, Governor Abdullahi described the day as historic.
He said that his administration will closely work with the national government to fast-track development in the area.
“The creation of this administration will go a long way in enhancing service provision, we will embark on implementing vital development programs. For this reason, I want to appeal to the residents that let us walk this journey together and help grow this new administrative unit the best way we can,” he said.
The regional commissioner called on the residents to peacefully co-exist with their neighbours noting that the administrative areas are not just about governance but about fostering unity, security, and peaceful co-existence among our communities.
“Peace is paramount and without it then no meaningful development can take place. It is for this reason that I want to appeal to all of you both leaders and residents to continue working closely with the security apparatus so that we can move our sub-county forward,” he said.
The subcounty administration headed by Deputy County Commissioner Mokua will be responsible for the coordination, management and supervision of government services.