Garissa elders petition assembly to rename streets after eminent local leaders, cultural icons
The elders explored the significance of naming the streets after eminent personalities as a form of public commemoration, honouring individuals who contributed to the community and the nation.
A delegation of elders has petitioned the Garissa County Assembly to rename key streets in Garissa municipality after distinguished local leaders, cultural icons, and other eminent personalities who contributed to the region's growth and identity.
The elders also called for the implementation of a comprehensive Geographical Information System (GIS) mapping and the installation of modern, durable street signage to improve navigation, preserve heritage and support urban planning.
More To Read
- Garissa leaders push for fire preparedness at Soko Mugdi following frequent market fires
- Garissa County Commissioner Mohamed Mwabudzo warns youth against Libya-based human trafficking syndicate
- Garissa man goes missing on wedding day, family appeals for public help to trace him
- Four suspects arrested as police rescue two minors in Garissa abduction attempt
- Civil society groups in Garissa call for stricter oversight of NGOs misusing donor funds
- Stakeholders gather in Garissa to tackle ASAL education challenges, explore tech solutions
Led by elder Dubat Ali Amey and Maina Githongori, popularly known as Maina Ngozi, the elders explored the significance of naming the streets after eminent personalities as a form of public commemoration, honouring individuals who contributed to the community and the nation.
"These names can reflect the values and history of our society, acting as a tangible link to the past. We want our children to walk on streets with personalities that will inspire them so that they can equally contribute to the well-being of society," said Dubat.
Dubat argued that street names were more than just addresses; they serve as powerful symbols that can shape how a community remembers, celebrates, and identifies the past and present.
Garissa Council of Elders' meeting with county assembly officials, including Deputy Speaker Mustaph Abdirashid. (Photo: Issa Hussein)
Maina Githongori, who has been a resident in Garissa town for the past 50 years, highlighted the difficulties residents face in giving directions due to a lack of signage and underscored the need for GIS-based mapping to improve urban mobility.
The elders proposed a county-wide GIS mapping initiative to accurately chart roads, lanes, and landmarks within Garissa municipality and its surrounding suburbs. A move that they insisted would enhance service delivery, improve emergency response, and assist visitors and service providers to navigate without challenge.
The petition was received by the Garissa County Assembly clerk, Mohamud Santur, witnessed by the Deputy Speaker and Iftin ward MCA, Mustapha Abdirashid, along with other members of the county assembly.
The clerk applauded the council of elders, whom he said were custodians of invaluable historical memory that deserves to be documented and preserved.
He urged the elders to identify those they recommend for commemoration and reflect the rich diversity of Garissa's communities.
The deputy speaker of the assembly similarly appreciated the elders for the proposal that he said was guided by wisdom and patriotism.
He assured them that the Assembly's Committee on Lands, Housing, Physical Planning and Urban Development, Roads and Public Works would review the petition and engage the County Executive for further consideration.
Other elders who participated in the petition included Ali Shebe Said, Khadija Ibrahim, Abdihamid Sheikh Hassan, and Samuel Kariuki.
Top Stories Today
