The North Eastern region is once again at the center of the national development conversation after North Eastern Regional Commissioner John Otieno concluded a high-level working tour of Wajir County, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to accelerating transformative projects under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
From affordable housing and road infrastructure to drought mitigation and water security, the visit painted a picture of a region gradually shifting from historical marginalization to a renewed era of structured state investment and administrative coordination.
Speaking during a media briefing after the training session for government officers in Wajir county, the Regional Commissioner described the workshop as “a critical step in equipping public servants with the skills and coordination needed to effectively implement national projects.”
“This training marks a new beginning for our officers. It is designed to ensure that government development programmes reach the grassroots efficiently and deliver tangible results to wananchi,” he said.
Commissioner Otieno revealed that the Affordable Housing Programme in Wajir County has reached “55 per cent completion,” expressing satisfaction with the pace of work.
“We are pleased with the progress made so far. The contractor has achieved 55 per cent completion and we expect the remaining work to be finalized within the next five months,” he stated.
The project, being implemented under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), has already created employment opportunities for local residents. According to the Commissioner, “over 100 youths have secured jobs at the site, including 20 skilled artisans.”
He noted that “most construction materials are being sourced locally within Wajir,” boosting the county’s economy and benefiting local suppliers.
Affordable housing units are being developed across the six constituencies in Wajir County, in line with the national government’s broader plan to enhance access to decent and affordable housing in the North Eastern region.
Duncan Mwariri, Regional Head of the Government Delivery Unit, echoed the Commissioner’s sentiments, emphasizing that the government remains committed to equitable development.
“The Government is working tirelessly to ensure that every corner of this region experiences meaningful development. No area will be left behind,” he said.
The Commissioner also highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects in the region, including the long-awaited Garissa–Mandera road, which was pledged by William Ruto.
“Construction works along the Tarbaj–Kutulo section are currently in progress, while the Modogashe–Wajir stretch is set to commence soon,” the Commissioner noted.
In addition, “preparations are underway for this year’s Madaraka Day celebrations, which will be hosted in Wajir,” a move expected to shine a national spotlight on the region and accelerate development projects.
“Water security projects are also advancing, with the Eldas Water Project among the key initiatives aimed at improving access to clean and reliable water,” he added.
Addressing concerns over the persistent drought affecting Wajir, Mandera and Garissa counties, Commissioner Otieno assured residents that “the national government has intensified relief efforts.”
He confirmed that “procurement processes for food supplies and livestock fodder have been completed, and distribution is ongoing.”
“As promised by President Ruto, we are taking decisive measures to mitigate the effects of drought. No Kenyan will die of hunger. We will do everything within our means to prevent loss of life,” he affirmed.
Following the briefing, Commissioner Otieno, Mr. Mwariri and other government officials toured the Affordable Housing construction site, where they “observed ongoing works and interacted with workers and contractors.”
The Northeastern Regional Commissioner, John Otieno, “conducted an official working tour of Wajir, where he inspected the ongoing Affordable Housing Project within the town.”
“During the visit, the Regional Commissioner toured the construction site and received a comprehensive briefing from the project implementation team on the milestones achieved and the progress made so far.”
He emphasized that “the Affordable Housing Programme remains a flagship government initiative designed to bridge the housing gap, stimulate local economic growth, and generate employment opportunities for residents.”
Mr. Otieno reiterated “the Government’s unwavering commitment to accelerating transformative development projects across the Northeastern region.”
He noted that “such initiatives are critical in improving living standards, expanding access to decent and affordable housing, and promoting inclusive socio-economic development for all Kenyans.”