Kapsabet: President William Ruto has underscored that collaboration between security agencies and residents had brought peace to Kerio Valley. The region had suffered from banditry and cattle rustling for more than 30 years. President Ruto noted that consistency, planning and strategy have helped restore peace along the Kerio Valley, adding that the region will now be open for development, trade and investment.
According to Kenya News Agency, President Ruto expressed his gratitude towards security officers, church leaders, and other partners for their efforts in restoring peace to the region. He assured security officers of his support as they continue their duties. The President encouraged residents and Kenyans to engage in the Nairobi Securities Exchange by purchasing Kenya Pipeline Company shares, emphasizing a shift from stock theft to trading at the stock exchange.
President Ruto issued warnings to individuals still possessing illegal firearms, urging them to surrender the weapons to either police or church leaders. He stated that security officers are the only ones entitled to have guns, while herders should rely on sticks for managing their animals.
With peace restored, the government has initiated development programs to help Kerio Valley catch up with the rest of Kenya. Infrastructure projects, including road and dam construction, aim to provide water for irrigation, livestock, and domestic use, along with electricity connections. The President mentioned plans to use water from the Turkwel River to irrigate 50,000 acres in West Pokot and Turkana counties, with a national goal of irrigating an additional 2.5 million acres.
President Ruto highlighted that Sh700 million is being allocated to complete the Muruny Water Dam to address water shortages in Kapenguria town and surrounding areas. He encouraged leaders to focus on viable ideas and development agendas, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and prioritizing the interests of the electorate.
During a visit to the Barpelo-Tot-Marich pass road construction site, President Ruto explained that Sh15 billion has been allocated for the project, with two contractors working on different sections of the road. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen reiterated the government's commitment to retrieving illegal firearms to ensure lasting peace.
Governors and MPs present at the event called for continued efforts to maintain peace in Kerio Valley. They praised CS Murkomen's security initiatives, which have ended the region's long-standing issues with banditry and cattle rustling.