Isiolo Governor Abdi Hassan Guyo urged government to prioritise implementation of multi-billion projects within Isiolo.
Speaking in an event on Saturday where Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was the chief guest, Guyo said that the projects are key in enhancing the economy and lives of Isiolo residents.
"The President pledged to construct for us a road from Isiolo to Marti and we request you as his deputy, you follow it up," he said on Saturday.
Guyo explained that the Lapseet corridor passing through Isiolo is significant because the town is coming up as an economic hub.
He also promised to avail land if the government plans to set up a petroleum depot in Isiolo.
“Tunataka depot ya petroleum iletwe Isiolo. Tuko na shamba tayari tutawapea (We want petroleum depot to be brought to Isiolo. We have land ready which we will give you," Guyo said.
Also speaking at the thanksgiving event for Petroleum PS Mohammed Liban, Former Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi said they would set up a regional petroleum depot in Isiolo.
On his part, DP Gachagua assured that the Kenya Kwanza government will continue to open up the region through the construction of mega projects to spur economic development.
He said the region will also reap more in terms of government appointments in the near future.
In July, the national government embarked on its journey to transform Isiolo County into an economic hub.
Trade CS Moses Kuria said the Kenya Kwanza government received Sh42 billion from Afriexim Bank and the African Finance Cooperation to fund two major projects.
From the funds, Sh28 billion will go to the completion of the much-awaited abattoir, which has remained unfinished for the last 16 years.
The abattoir is expected to change the fortunes of the county, with new infrastructure such as roads, a bigger airport and increased employment.
The other Sh14 billion will go towards expanding the Isiolo International Airport.
On the airport, Kuria said it will be expanded to accommodate the freighters that will be landing at the facility.
Warning to bandits
The DP took the opportunity to warn communities living on the Isiolo - Meru border to stop the conflicts saying these clashes are an impediment to development in the region.
“Ata kama watu wa Isiolo mko na shares kwa serikali, hii wizi wa mifugo imepitwa na wakati. Hapa kwenye mpaka wa Meru na Isiolo.... Hio maneno ya wizi wa mifugo tuachane na hiyo maneno, inaturejesha nyuma na inaleta vita katika Jamii,” Gachagua said.
Defense Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale warned Isiolo residents against banditry saying no one will be spared in the fight against banditry.
"You know what you did in Pokot last week. I’m telling Isiolo people to stop stealing livestock or else you will be dealt with accordingly," Duale said.
The CS also revealed that this week he has invited Isiolo leaders to Nairobi headquarters to discuss land tussles between Isiolo people and the army in Isiolo.
