Kindiki: We must guard Kenya’s security, stability

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has said the nation’s security and stability will be guarded by all means possible for faster development and prosperity.

The DP said nothing will be achieved if peace and harmony is not guaranteed.

Speaking on Thursday when he presided over the Taveta Economic Empowerment engagement at Satoo Grounds in Taveta town, TaitaTaveta Constituency, Kindiki said development can only be advanced in a peaceful and stable environment. 

“National security is critical, without it we would not develop the nation, we cannot build roads, markets, extend electricity connections if there is no peace. We are ready to defend the nation’s peace and security by every means possible, even if we lose popularity, because the nation comes first, then everything else,” he said.

The DP, who also graced Mwatate Economic Empowerment in the same county, encouraged Kenyans to freely express their opinions but ensure it is done peacefully.

“Everybody is free to air their views, to give their opinions and disagree with the government, but you must do so peacefully and without arms. Anybody who does the contrary is an enemy of Kenya and wants to bring this nation down,” he said.

“Don’t be misled into entertaining tribal divisions because it is harmful to our efforts to unite the nation. Let us live in peace and unity for our nation’s prosperity.”

The Deputy President outlined government-funded development programs rolled out in the county, including the construction of the 70km Taveta-Njukini-Chala-Rombo-Ilasit Road.

The Sh9.4 billion roads link Taita Taveta and Kajiado Counties.

“The contractor has commenced construction of the road, and it will be completed on time. It is a huge project. It will open up the region to economic transformation and ease transportation of goods and movement of people,” he said.

To ease access to land registry services, the government will open a Lands Registry office in Taveta town as requested by residents when the DP recently visited the county.

In the County, the government is building over 1000 affordable houses in Taveta town worth Sh2.2 billion and new 580units worth Sh400 million for the Taveta KMTC campus under the affordable housing program.

The government is also building new modern markets in Mwatate, Voi, and Wundayi towns in line with its promise to provide decent places for business for mama mboga and small-scale traders under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.

Under the ongoing last-mile electricity connection, the county has been allocated Sh767 million to make power accessible to more residents.

“We will consider additional allocations to the county’s kitty under this rural electricity expansion program,” he said.

The DP called on residents to register for health coverage under Taifa Care, saying it is meant to cover medical expenses for all Kenyans.

Kindiki said the government is looking into how to waive Agriculture Finance Corporation loans as requested by the residents.