When I first visited the Mandera in the mid-1960s during the Shifta War under the umbrella of the National Council of Churches Kenya (NCCK), Mandera was just a small village devoid of any development. Today, I am impressed at the level of development initiated by the county government. With its vast land, Mandera can be turned into an agricultural hub if proper measures are put in place. The country is an interesting destination toi visit

We appreciate the pace of development in Mandera and the progress made in the border securitization programme. Thank you Office of the Governor for your warm reception

I first visited Mandera in 1979 as a military doctor to pick a referral patient and ten years later, travelled back to the county to pick family members of the then dethroned Somalia president Siad Barre at Elwak. The two instances gave me a sneak peek of the county. However my recent visit as the Building Bridges Initiative CEO gave me an opportunity to interact with the residents and leaders. Contrary to belief, Mandera is secure, with vibrant wananchi and huge strides in development. My message to all Kenyans is that this is a stable and secure country

I was last in Mandera 53 years ago. Mandera town was a hamlet. All we could see then were thickets, wild animals and sparse population. For the six months that I stayed in the area we used to draw water from River Daua using donkeys, but the changes I have witnessed are tremendous,. My visit this year is a complete contrast to that of a half a century ago. The people are very friendly and what has amazed me most is the resilience of the people to develop their county despite threats posed by insecurity. Devolution has played a major role in the development of the region.

I am very much impressed with the impact and ways devolution is transforming the lives of the people of Mandera through tangible development. I would also like to thank the Office of the Governor for the hospitality accorded the committee.

Our Constitution is anchored on the principles of human rights and the provision of services closer to the people at the grassroots. Well done! Devolution is working in Mandera

We were skeptical due to security fears but I am surprised that Mandera is more peaceful and secure than Nairobi. I am very much happy in my maiden visit to this beautiful county,

Great to be home. This is the future. Great and successful devolution story. Keep the good work up. Tuko pamoja

Governor, I appreciate your focused effort to transform Mandera. Keep it up and you can count on us in Nairobi

In Mandera, child mortality has halved due to the County’s investment in medical facilities. We owe that success, first and foremost, to the diligence of our people; and to the leaders here, and their predecessors. I extend our warmest thanks to you all for this success so far

Radicalization of the youth is a legitimate and significant concern among all peace loving Kenyans. I am optimistic that radicalization, extremism and terrorism can be defeated through development, resolution of inequities and ensuring basic services and human rights for all. “As part of these efforts, I note that the Mandera County Referral Hospital has been refurbished from its formerly dilapidated state. It has emerged from the ashes into a very good hospital facility.

The transformation witnessed in Mandera County is a true testimony of the success of devolution. I have been very much Impressed during my tour