Governor Simon Kachapin Champions Socioeconomic Development in Kerio Valley Region

Today, Governor Simon Kachapin joined an inter-ministerial meeting with leaders from five counties of the Kerio Valley belt to deliberate on fast-tracking the implementation of the Presidential directive aimed at accelerating socioeconomic development in the region. This initiative follows the restoration of peace, offering a new opportunity for growth and transformation.

Key resolutions from the meeting included prioritizing the development of security roads, schools, health centers, and water projects along the borders of West Pokot, Samburu, Turkana, Baringo, and Elgeyo Marakwet counties. These projects will focus on inter-community boundaries to foster cohesion, integration, and peaceful coexistence among communities.

A major milestone reached during the meeting was the commitment to enhance education in the arid areas of the region. All primary schools will now be enrolled in the school feeding program, while secondary schools will benefit from food-for-fees bursaries to improve enrollment and retention rates.

The meeting was graced by Hon. Kipchumba Murkomen, Cabinet Secretary for Ministry of Interior and National Administration, Hon. Beatrice Askul, Cabinet Secretary for East African Community and ASAL, alongside Principal Secretaries Dr. Belio Kipsang (Education), Kello Harsama (Arid and Semi-Arid Lands), Harry Kimtai (Medical Services), and Julius Korir (Water).

Leaders from the Kerio Valley region also attended, including Governors Lati Lelelit (Samburu) and Wisley Rotich (Elgeyo Marakwet), as well as Senator Steve Lelegwe (Samburu) and Baringo Deputy Governor Felix Maiyo.

West Pokot was also represented by Women Representative Hon. Rael Kasiwai and Sigor MP Peter Lochakapong. Other MPs present included Caroline Ngelechei (Elgeyo Marakwet), Naisula Lesuuda (Samburu West), Jonathan Letipila (Samburu North), Nicholas Ngikor (Turkana East), Kangogo Bowen (Marakwet East), Timothy Kipchumba (Marakwet West), Joseph Makilap (Baringo North), Protus Akujah (Loima), and William Kamket (Tiaty).

Governor Kachapin reaffirmed West Pokot's commitment to supporting these initiatives, which aim to enhance development, improve livelihoods, and strengthen regional cooperation. He emphasized the importance of unity among counties to drive sustainable progress in the Kerio Valley region.