Teso North Leaders Criticized Over Neglect of Malaba Town Despite Revenue Contribution
Residents of Malaba town in Teso North have accused local leaders of long-term neglect, despite the town being the second-largest revenue contributor in Busia County. Citizens say key development projects and essential services have been consistently overlooked, leaving the town underdeveloped compared to its contribution to the county’s coffers.
Locals point to glaring gaps in healthcare provision, noting that while Kocholia Hospital has been upgraded to Level 3, Malaba Health Centre still lacks essential equipment and adequate capacity, forcing residents to travel elsewhere for treatment. Plans to establish a vocational training centre in Malaba were reportedly diverted to Chamasiri, further fueling frustration among residents who feel that development is systematically redirected away from their town. The absence of major county offices or municipal infrastructure in Malaba, coupled with street lighting ending in Amagoro, has left parts of the town in darkness. Security infrastructure is equally inadequate, with the Malaba Police Station remaining dilapidated and little progress made to improve the facility.
Other stalled projects, such as the Malaba Law Courts in Achunet, highlight broader concerns about uneven development in Teso North. Residents argue that relocation plans and repeated delays have prevented the town from realizing its full potential. Many now call on Member of Parliament Oku Kaunya and county officials to prioritize Malaba, noting that the town’s strategic position as a border hub warrants immediate investment in health, security, and municipal services to match its economic contribution.