Mandera County joined the nation in commemorating the 62nd Madaraka Day at Moi Stadium, Mandera Town. The celebrations were led by Deputy Governor H.E. Dr. Ali Maalim Mohamud, E.B.S. The event brought together residents, national and county officials, religious leaders, and representatives from various sectors under the theme “Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs.”
In his keynote speech, the deputy governor honored Kenya’s heroes and heroines who fought for self-rule, emphasizing the importance of wise governance and sustainable development. He explained that while the national theme highlights marine resources, Mandera contributes to the blue economy through innovative use of inland water sources like boreholes, water pans, and seasonal rivers.
He highlighted the county’s key achievements across sectors:
• Water and Irrigation: Deployment of 86 water bowsers, donor engagement for the Takaba Water Supply Master Plan, rehabilitation of 30 earth pans, extension of 350 km of pipelines, and drilling of strategic boreholes to improve water access.
• Agriculture and Livestock: 18 irrigation and flood control projects, training of 1,187 farmers on climate-smart agriculture, operationalization of livestock markets, livestock insurance for 7,089 pastoralists, and distribution of 540 modern beehives for income diversification.
• Healthcare: Upgrade of Mandera Referral Hospital to a Level 5 Teaching and Referral Hospital, operationalization of Banisa and Lafey theaters, increased medical supplies, expansion of health facilities, recruitment of healthcare workers, and improved maternal health indicators.
• Education: Kshs. 1.27 billion disbursed in bursaries over three years, significant increases in ECDE and TVET enrollment, recruitment of ECDE teachers, and support for teacher trainees and KMTC programs.
• Environmental Conservation: Over 30,000 trees planted, launch of the Elwak Ecosystem Restoration Project, bamboo planting along River Daua, and recognition for winning the 2024 World Green City Award.
• Social Protection: Distribution of food to over 240,000 households, support for persons with disabilities, and ongoing construction of 148 housing units for vulnerable families.
• Youth, Women & Sports: Launch of the Governor MAK Super Cup, digital skills training for over 2,000 youth, women economic empowerment programs, and plans for a Talent Academy.
• Trade and Economic Growth: Construction of modern markets, support for SMEs and cooperatives, and digitalization of land records to enhance investment and land security.
• Peace and Security: Drafting of the Peacebuilding and Conflict Management Bill, establishment of the Maslaha Centre, monthly outreach programs, and enhanced cross-border peace efforts.
Deputy Governor Dr. Ali Maalim expressed gratitude to development partners and reaffirmed the county’s commitment to improved service delivery, peace, and inclusive development. The event concluded with vibrant cultural performances, parades, and exhibitions.
