Enhanced security crucial for completion of Wajir -Mandera road project -MP

Tarbaj MP Hussein Abdi Barre on Saturday called on his constituents to cooperate with the government in maintaining peace and security ahead of the construction of a major tarmac road project that will connect Wajir and Mandera counties.

He stated that enhanced security and collaboration would help ensure the successful completion of this historic road project, funded by the World Bank and the Kenyan government.

Speaking in Tarbaj town in Wajir, the MP noted the benefits of the road project for residents of the Tarbaj constituency and the larger Wajir and Mandera counties. He urged the public to take responsibility against any threats of insecurity that could sabotage the implementation of the project.

"We need to be concerned about such mega projects that will foster development and economic growth in the region," he said.

He mentioned that the project is expected to open up the Northern Kenya region through the Horn of Africa Road project.

Officials during a site visit on June 18, 2024. (Handout)

The MP also noted the local community's concerns regarding employment opportunities in the road project, promising to consult with the Kenya National Highway Authority and the construction company awarded the project.

The road project is part of the tarmacking of the Isiolo-Wajir-Mandera 748 km road, one of the biggest infrastructure projects undertaken in the region since independence.

On June 18, 2024, engineers from the Chinese company awarded the project, KeNHA officials, local leaders, and the Wajir county security head conducted a site visit of the road project. During the visit, the engineers identified and selected strategic sites that would serve as their operational bases during the construction process.