Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has started a three-day tour across Ukambani. The visit covers the counties of Kitui, Makueni, and Machakos. His main goal is to address growing concerns about insecurity and stalled development projects. Many locals feel the region has been neglected by the national government. Mr Murkomen will meet local leaders, security officials, and residents to discuss key issues affecting the area.
Security challenges in Kitui remain unresolved
One of the biggest concerns in the region is insecurity. In Kitui County, local farmers often clash with herders from neighboring North Eastern counties. These herders bring thousands of camels onto farmlands, damaging crops and creating tension. Many residents believe these herders are connected to powerful individuals in government.
In response to repeated conflict, the Kitui County government used its own budget to build six police stations along the troubled border. These were meant to be staffed by national police, but many remain inactive. A military base that was planned for the Kitui-Tana River border has also stalled. As a result, residents continue to live in fear and investment in the region remains limited.
Road projects remain incomplete
Several key road projects in the region have not progressed. The Kibwezi-Kitui road, which began before President Ruto took office, remains unfinished. Other roads such as the Kitui-Kanyangi-Wote road and the Mutomo-Mutha-Hola road are also delayed. These roads are critical for connecting Ukambani to neighboring regions.
To reach Wote town in Makueni County, residents often travel long distances through Machakos or Kibwezi. There is no direct road between Kitui and Tana River County, forcing traders to take longer routes through Mombasa or Garissa. This affects trade and increases transport costs.
Leadership and representation issues
The recent dismissal of Peninah Malonza, the former Cabinet Secretary for the East African Community, has caused concern in the region. She was one of only two cabinet secretaries from Ukambani. Her removal has left the community feeling underrepresented in national leadership. A replacement has yet to be named, which adds to the frustration.
Town hall meetings planned in each county
Mr Murkomen plans to hold town hall meetings in Kitui, Makueni, and Machakos. These meetings will include local leaders, security agencies, community representatives, and youth groups. The goal is to have open and honest discussions about the problems affecting residents.
On Thursday, Mr Murkomen is scheduled to meet the Eastern Region Security Committee in Kitui Town. He will then hold a public town hall and appear on local radio stations for a joint interview. On Friday, he will be in Wote, the capital of Makueni County. The tour will end on Saturday in Machakos Town.
Residents encouraged to speak out
The town hall meetings are designed to be interactive. Residents are welcome to raise their concerns and offer suggestions. These forums give the Cabinet Secretary and his team direct insight into the daily struggles faced by the community.
Security officials and National Government Administrative Officers will also take part. They will explain the challenges they encounter while trying to maintain law and order. Topics expected to come up include border conflicts, resource competition, cattle rustling, road safety, and gender-based violence.
An opportunity for real change
This tour is a chance for the national government to rebuild trust in Ukambani. Many locals are hoping that their voices will finally be heard and that action will follow. They want better roads, more security, and development that includes their region.
Mr Murkomen’s trip to Ukambani follows a similar visit to the Coast Region earlier this month. In that visit, he also held public meetings to engage directly with residents.
As the tour continues, residents will be watching closely to see if the promises made during the town halls will lead to real improvements.
