Baringo: Residents of Baringo have witnessed a significant development as the government has moved to revive two critical road projects in the county, which had been stalled for years.
According to Kenya News Agency, one of the major road projects, the 100-kilometer Marigat-Mochongoi-Karandi-Ol Ng'arua-Muhotetu Junction and the Muhotetu Sipili, had been launched in 2018 but came to a halt in 2022. The incomplete road forced residents to take a 214-kilometer detour through Nakuru and Laikipia Counties instead of a direct 49-kilometer journey. President William Ruto, during a development tour of Baringo, flagged off INTEX company equipment at Marigat, signaling the resumption of construction. The President highlighted the road's potential to enhance agricultural efficiency, open new markets, and boost tourism in areas like lakes Baringo and Bogoria and the Kerio Valley.
Additionally, President Ruto launched another road project, the 81-kilometer Kasoiyo-Riwo-Seretunin-Talai-Kasisit-Kipcherere-Kampi Samaki route, which had stalled at Seretunin Centre. This road is expected to facilitate easier travel from Saimo-Soi ward in Baringo North to Kabartonjo and Kabarnet Towns, improving access to essential services.
In line with infrastructure development, the President also laid the foundation for the Marigat Affordable Housing Project (AHP) comprising 382 units. He disclosed advanced plans for a twin 2000-unit AHP project in Kabarnet, urging the Baringo governor to secure land for an additional 5000 units, alongside a 1000-capacity Kabarnet University hostel, to elevate Kabarnet to city status.
Furthermore, the President announced a Sh900 million allocation for the Kabarnet Stadium project, slated to commence in January with support from the Kenya Defence Forces, aiming for completion within six months. He also instructed Lands Principal Secretary Nixon Korir to expedite the issuance of long-awaited titles to Mochongoi residents.
The President was accompanied by cabinet secretaries Hannah Wendot Cheptumo, Alice Wahome, Kipchumba Murkomen, and Davies Chirchir, as well as local legislators Charles Kamuren, Joseph Makilap, Joshua Kandie, and Reuben Kiborek.