Bungoma County Senator David Wakoli called on President William Ruto to ensure the swift completion of stalled development projects in the county. Speaking during an interdenominational prayer service in Cheptais, Mount Elgon Constituency, organized by various denominations, Wakoli highlighted the urgent need for action on government-backed initiatives that have been delayed, particularly in road construction and infrastructure.
Wakoli specifically pointed out the inefficiency of contractors working on roads in the region, stressing that many projects have been left unfinished, affecting the local communities’ access and economic potential. He urged the national government to intervene and ensure that these vital development initiatives are completed.
“The people of Misikhu are watching us live and are requesting that the contractor for the Misikhu -Brigadier road be replaced, as the current one is not on the ground. When you come to Misikhu, Honourable President, please ensure that the contractor is visible on the ground, because things on the ground are different.”
“The contractor for the Kakamega-Dorofu-Musikoma road has been negligent. They should be removed, and another contractor should be brought in so that the work can proceed.”
Additionally, the senator appealed to President Ruto to consider establishing a tea factory in the region to support local farmers. Expressing gratitude to the president for previously providing funds for the coffee sector, Wakoli emphasized the importance of value addition to the crop and its potential to boost the livelihoods of local farmers.
He stated, “I would like to thank your government for releasing Ksh 420 million on January 6th for the coffee farmers, the famous ‘Cherry Fund.’ On behalf of the people of Mount Elgon and Bungoma, I make this request: The Cabinet Secretary visited, toured the area with the Governor and the Speaker and they identified land here in Mount Elgon. I ask that, as this year progresses, kindly put up a tea factory for the people of Mount Elgon.”
Another key issue raised by Wakoli was the need for land reforms in Mount Elgon, with the Senator requesting that residents be provided with title deeds for their land. This, he argued, would empower the local communities and provide them with the security they need for further development and investment.
“Honorable President, I saw the Deputy President in Taita Taveta and Tana River distributing title deeds. These are full Kenyans, and they have asked me to remind you, with a sincere heart, that as the Commander-in-Chief, just as your government is doing in other areas, please remember the people of Mount Elgon so that they too can receive title deeds, as has been done in other regions.”
In his address, Wakoli praised President Ruto’s commitment to uplifting the agricultural sector but reiterated the need for comprehensive support to ensure that the benefits of such initiatives reach the grassroots level.