Baringo Residents Push for Sh10 Billion Fund to Build Security Roads
Residents of Baringo County are calling on the national government to set aside a Sh10 billion special fund dedicated to improving and completing critical security roads across the region. The proposal, presented during a public participation forum in Marigat, seeks to address long-standing challenges linked to cattle rustling, banditry, and limited access to key public services in remote areas. Locals say the fund, to be placed under the Ministry of Transport, would not only help revive stalled projects but also open up new road networks essential for boosting security operations.
During the forum convened by the National Assembly Budget and Appropriations Committee—co-chaired by Baringo Woman Representative Florence Jematia and Nyeri MP Rahab Mukami—residents highlighted key routes that require urgent government attention. Stephen Barkoton, a resident of Saimo Soi Ward, noted that completing links across Baringo North, Baringo South, and Tiaty would connect the county to neighbouring Elgeyo Marakwet, West Pokot, Laikipia, Samburu and Turkana, significantly improving mobility for both civilians and security teams. Several uncompleted roads such as Kipcherere–Sibilo–Yatia–Kositei and Ashakanin–Kipnai–Lomuker–Arror were cited as essential for accessing health facilities, schools, and markets in remote localities heavily affected by insecurity.
Other residents echoed concerns about stalled projects, with some warning of legal action should the government fail to prioritise the completion of long-pending road works. They stressed that improved road access would support faster deployment of security officers, recovery of stolen livestock, and economic revitalisation in communities long affected by banditry. Leaders from Tiaty and Baringo South added that other development needs—including electricity expansion and improved water supply—must accompany road construction to spur investment and enhance livelihoods.
Local MPs, among them Baringo South’s Charles Kamuren and Baringo North’s Joseph Makilap, backed the call for a special road construction kitty, stressing that security operations in the North Rift require stronger logistical support. The legislators also proposed monthly stipends for National Police Reservists and additional resources for community recovery, including restocking livestock for victims of attacks. The committee assured residents that their proposals will be consolidated into an official report for presentation in Parliament, raising hopes that long-awaited solutions to Baringo’s insecurity and development challenges may finally be within reach.