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Motorists in Mandera East stage protest over poor roads

Motorists in Mandera East took to the streets in protest against the deplorable road conditions despite diligently paying taxes for road maintenance. (Photo: Adan mohamed)

By Adan Mohamed | 20 Apr 2024

Concerns were raised about the dangers posed by the deteriorating roads, particularly during the rainy season, leading to accidents due to vehicles sliding in the mud.

Motorists in Mandera East took to the streets to protest against the deplorable state of roads in the area, despite diligently fulfilling their tax obligations for road maintenance.

Expressing their frustration, drivers highlighted the nearly impassable conditions along a 12-kilometer stretch from the livestock market to Neboi village.

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Abdi Qadar Hussein, a matatu driver on this route, criticized the county government for multiple checkpoints focused solely on tax collection, questioning the use of funds and advocating for road rehabilitation.

"We pay taxes daily and expect that our money be used appropriately to rehabilitate these roads," he said.

Concerns were raised about the dangers posed by the deteriorating roads, particularly during the rainy season, leading to accidents due to vehicles sliding in the mud.

Mohamed Ali, a taxi driver, highlighted safety concerns, with residents opting to walk rather than risk boarding taxis.

"Our businesses have been affected. Residents opt to walk instead due to fear of accidents," Mohamed said.

Saria Sheikh, a resident of Neboi village, lamented the challenges faced by mothers in accessing healthcare facilities, especially during emergencies, due to poor road conditions.

"Accessibility to basic care is hindered by the impassable roads. We need the government to intervene," Saria said.

The residents called for urgent intervention from local representatives and the county government, urging them to tarmac the roads.

In response, Amina Hassan, the County Executive Committee Member for Roads and Transport, assured motorists of impending rehabilitation plans, with Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) set to assess and commence works promptly in Mandera town.

"In a month, rehabilitation works would begin on the affected roads," she added