The North Eastern Region has recorded significant development gains under the Kenya Kwanza Administration, with 30 key projects either completed or ongoing across Wajir, Mandera and Garissa counties, North Eastern Regional Commissioner John Odhiambo Otieno has said.
Speaking during a media breakfast held in Wajir on the eve of the 2026 Madaraka Day celebrations, Otieno said the projects are aimed at transforming livelihoods, improving infrastructure and expanding economic opportunities across the region.
He noted that Wajir County, which is hosting this year’s national celebrations, has benefited from major infrastructure investments, including the newly constructed 10,000-seater Wajir Stadium, described as the first modern stadium in the county since independence.
The facility includes a full-sized football pitch, eight-lane athletics track, changing rooms, VIP lounges, spectator terraces, parking facilities and a dedicated water system.
Otieno said the stadium is expected to serve as a regional sports hub, support talent development, create business opportunities and enhance social cohesion in the North Eastern region.
He further cited complementary investments such as upgraded roads, street lighting and expanded water connectivity, noting that they have improved the urban environment in Wajir town, while ongoing upgrades at Wajir International Airport are expected to enhance passenger handling and operational efficiency.
On trade and commerce, the Regional Commissioner said seven modern markets are under construction under the Economic Stimulus Programme across the region, including three in Wajir County.
Once completed, the markets will accommodate more than 1,400 traders and create employment opportunities for local communities.
In the education sector, Otieno said seven student accommodation centres with a combined capacity of 3,040 beds are being constructed across institutions in Wajir, Mandera and Garissa counties to improve learning conditions and boost enrolment.
In housing, he said five affordable housing projects in Wajir and Garissa counties are expected to deliver 2,148 units for low- and middle-income earners while generating jobs and supporting local Jua Kali artisans.
Otieno also highlighted major road projects, including the Wajir–Tarbaj Road, Tarbaj–Kotulo–Mandera Road, sections of the LAPSSET Corridor and the Tana River Bridge project, saying they will enhance regional connectivity and boost trade.
In Mandera County, he cited ongoing water and sanitation projects, including the Mandera Water Supply Project and a modern sewerage system, which are expected to improve access to clean water and sanitation services.
As Wajir prepares to host thousands of guests for the national celebrations, Otieno assured residents and visitors of adequate security and traffic management measures.
“We want to assure all visitors that Wajir is calm, secure and fully prepared to host a successful Madaraka Day celebration,” he said.
He invited Kenyans from across the country to attend the celebrations, saying the region was ready to host the historic event.
By Hamdi Buthul
