Hussein Mohamed Dagane, Minority Leader, Garissa County Assembly and MCA Garissa Township. /HANDOUT“Whoever does not thank people has not thanked God.” — Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him)
For many years, the people of Northern Kenya have often felt marginalised in national development conversations. Despite the region’s immense potential, communities in Garissa, Wajir, Mandera, Isiolo, Marsabit, and other northern counties have long struggled with inadequate infrastructure, limited access to government services, water scarcity, and underinvestment. While significant challenges still remain, it is important to acknowledge leaders who make deliberate efforts to address these historical gaps. Today, many residents of Northern Kenya have reasons to appreciate President William Ruto for the attention his administration has given to the region.
One
of the most notable developments has been the government’s commitment to
bringing essential public services closer to the people. For years, obtaining
crucial documents such as passports and national identification cards often
required residents to travel long distances, incurring significant costs and
delays. The restoration and strengthening of identification and passport
services in Garissa has been a welcome relief for thousands of residents. What
may appear to be a simple administrative decision has transformed lives by
saving time, reducing expenses, and improving access to opportunities that
depend on proper documentation.
The return of these services portends an understanding that development is not only about roads and buildings. It is also about dignity, inclusion, and ensuring that every Kenyan can access government services regardless of where they live. When citizens are able to obtain identification documents and passports closer to home, they are better positioned to pursue education, employment, business opportunities, and international travel. Such initiatives have sent a powerful message that Northern Kenya matters and that its people deserve the same level of service enjoyed elsewhere in the country.
President Ruto’s administration has also demonstrated a growing commitment to infrastructure development, security enhancement, water projects, and economic empowerment programmes across Northern Kenya. The hosting of national celebrations such as Madaraka Day in Wajir was itself a historic statement. Beyond the symbolism, it brought national attention to a region that has often remained on the periphery of public discourse. It reminded Kenyans that Northern Kenya is not a distant frontier but an integral part of our nation’s present and future.
As I reflect on these efforts, I am reminded of the story of Najashi, the just King of Abyssinia, who offered refuge and protection to the early Muslims during one of the most difficult periods in Islamic history. When the followers of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) faced persecution in Makkah, Najashi welcomed them into his kingdom and guaranteed their safety.
He refused to hand them over to the Quraysh leaders who sought their return and allowed them to live peacefully in his kingdom, ensuring their safety and freedom of worship.
The Prophet never forgot this kindness. He spoke highly of Najashi, appreciated his support, and honoured him. He praised him as a righteous and fair ruler and maintained a positive relationship with him. When Najashi passed away, the Prophet informed his companions of his death and performed the absentee funeral prayer for him, a rare honour that reflected his gratitude and respect.
The lesson from this story is timeless. Gratitude is a noble virtue. When leaders act with fairness and demonstrate concern for the welfare of people, their efforts deserve recognition. Appreciation does not mean blind loyalty or the abandonment of constructive criticism. It rather means acknowledging positive actions where they exist and encouraging more of them. In a democratic society, citizens should be willing to point out shortcomings, but they should also be generous enough to recognise meaningful progress.
Many residents of Northern Kenya have witnessed tangible signs of increased government engagement under President Ruto’s leadership. From efforts to improve connectivity and service delivery to initiatives aimed at supporting pastoralist communities and expanding economic opportunities, there is a growing sense that the region is receiving attention that many have long desired. These interventions may not solve every challenge overnight, but they represent important steps in the right direction.
The people of Northern Kenya are proud Kenyans. They seek neither special treatment nor favours. What they desire is equal opportunity, fair representation, and access to services that enable them to contribute fully to the nation’s growth. When government policies move closer to achieving these goals, it is both appropriate and necessary to acknowledge them. Recognition strengthens the bond between citizens and their leaders while encouraging continued investment in underserved regions.
Northern Kenya continues its journey toward greater prosperity and inclusion, and many residents remain hopeful that the momentum will continue. More roads, water projects, schools, healthcare facilities, and economic opportunities are still needed. Yet, amid these aspirations, it is important to pause and express gratitude where it is due. Just as Prophet Muhammad appreciated the justice and support of King Najashi, many people across Northern Kenya today appreciate President William Ruto for the initiatives that have improved lives and restored hope. May this commitment to inclusion and development continue, ensuring that no part of Kenya is left behind.
The writer is the Minority Leader, Garissa County Assembly, and MCA Garissa Township.
