Nyandarua: Nyandarua Governor Moses Kiarie Badilisha has called on politicians to stop politicizing the establishment of the University of Nyandarua, describing it as the best gift President William Ruto has given to the county. Speaking during the Jukwaa la Usalama County Tour in Olkalou, Badilisha urged leaders to guard the institution jealously, saying it holds immense potential for the county's growth.
According to Kenya News Agency, the governor further stressed that once the university becomes operational, the local community should be given priority in providing accommodation to students and supplying foodstuff to the institution. On human-wildlife conflict, Badilisha decried the invasion of farmlands by hippopotamuses from Lake Olbolosat, noting that the absence of fencing has left farmers vulnerable. He appealed to the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) to act swiftly to contain the animals and safeguard farmers' crops.
The governor also raised concern over a public quarry in Olkalou, which he said had been grabbed by unscrupulous individuals. He called on Lands Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome to intervene and resolve the dispute to allow locals access the quarry for their livelihoods. Badilisha revealed that some government officers had been colluding with criminals involved in livestock theft. However, after consultations with the county security team, several officers were transferred out of Nyandarua, leading to improved security. He warned that officers who engage in crime or neglect their duties have no place in the county.
The governor underscored the need for a Huduma Centre in Kinangop to bring essential government services closer to residents. The centre would offer services from NTSA, HELB, Boma Yangu, EACC, and KUCCP, among others. Badilisha also lauded the national government's support in maintaining security and fighting illicit brews. He noted that Nyandarua County has been at the forefront of the anti-illicit alcohol campaign through strong collaboration with the security sector. He cited joint efforts between the county and the national government in licensing bars at county and sub-county levels as a key example of this cooperation.
The governor further appealed to Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen to provide housing for senior officers stationed at the county headquarters in Olkalou. Many, he said, were still based in Nyahururu town following the boundary adjustment that placed it under Laikipia County. Relocating the officers to Olkalou, he argued, would improve response to security matters. On agriculture, Badilisha said plans were underway to establish cooperative-managed storage facilities at ward level to stock government-subsidized fertilizer, ensuring farmers can access the inputs with ease. The governor reiterated his administration's commitment to working closely with the national government to enhance service delivery, promote security, and support farmers in Nyandarua.