BY SALIAN NARETU LEKUTUKAI – SAMBURU
In a candid radio interview earlier today, Samburu West MP Naisula Lesuuda shed light on the dire road situation in Samburu County, following the recent heavy rains that have rendered many routes impassable. The ongoing rains have caused significant damage, with vehicles often submerged in mud and travellers forced to dig their way out. This has only added to the long-standing frustration over the county’s deteriorating road network, which has been plagued by potholes and incomplete projects, leading to numerous complaints, disputes, and even fatalities.
Addressing the issue, MP Lesuuda revealed that several road construction projects have been halted due to the continuous downpours. She mentioned that the Maralal-Loosuk road, which was under construction, is currently under maintenance. “We have agreed with the contractor that the roads should be maintained while the rains continue, and once they stop, proper construction will resume,” she explained.
Lesuuda also announced that there is an agreement between her office and the CEO of the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA) to extend the road connecting Maralal-Loosuk to Lolmolog, reaching all the way to Suguta. This extension is expected to improve connectivity and accessibility for the residents of Samburu.
The MP highlighted that the ongoing road works will bring employment opportunities to the local population, as local leaders are overseeing the projects. Lesuuda also touched upon the promise made by the national government to develop roads in the Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASAL) regions, specifically mentioning the “Roads 2000” initiative, which includes three phases for Samburu.
She elaborated on these phases:
- Phase One: Maralal-Shabaa, covering 10km, with Lesuuda personally committing to tarmacking 4km.
- Phase Two: Masikitaa-Latakweny to the end of Kirisia Forest, extending to Opiroi. This phase is expected to be advertised by December this year.
- Phase Three: Latakweny-Milgis River to Ndonyo Wasin, with work likely to commence next year.
In addition to road development, Lesuuda confirmed plans to make Loosuk Town the headquarters of Samburu West. This decision followed a public participation exercise in which residents expressed their preference for Loosuk. “We have made arrangements to establish Loosuk as the headquarters, and we are looking forward to making services available there once it becomes a sub-county in Samburu West,” she stated.
Lesuuda did not shy away from discussing the hazardous conditions in Seiya, where a damaged bridge has claimed many lives. She assured residents of the area that she is committed to reconstructing the bridge and improving road safety.
The MP made a heartfelt appeal to all leaders in Samburu County to work together, regardless of political affiliations, to address the pressing issues facing their constituents. She also urged residents to take precautions during the rainy season, particularly avoiding flooded roads.
Lesuuda’s proactive stance on Samburu’s road challenges underscores her commitment to enhancing infrastructure and ensuring safer, more reliable transportation for all. Her call for collaboration among leaders and communities reflects a broader vision for the county’s future, one that promises growth, connectivity, and better opportunities for all its residents.
