The Speaker of the Elgeyo Marakwet County Assembly, Lawi Kibire, has welcomed the swearing-in of Festus Kirop as the new Member of County Assembly (MCA) for Endo Ward, expressing confidence that his leadership will enhance representation and accelerate development in the area.
Speaking during the Swearing-In- Ceremony at the County Assembly in Iten, Kibire said the residents of Endo Ward can now look forward to renewed leadership, following a period without representation after the death of former MCA, Jeremiah Kibiwott.
“When a Ward does not have a member representing it, there is always some slowdown in activities. We are happy that Festus Kirop, is now in Office and will steer the great Ward of Endo to the next level,” said Kibire.
The Speaker noted that Kirop assumes office at a time when the security situation in Kerio Valley has significantly improved, creating a conducive environment for development and service delivery.
He observed that the restoration of peace has enabled both the National and County governments, to focus on key development priorities, including education, agriculture, infrastructure and economic empowerment.
“For the first two assemblies, members spent much of their time dealing with insecurity and banditry. Today, the people of Kerio Valley have an opportunity to focus on education, agriculture, business and development,” he said.
Kibire highlighted Endo Ward’s vast potential in agriculture and tourism, describing Kerio Valley as an emerging investment destination with opportunities for economic growth and job creation.
He also challenged leaders to focus on delivering tangible results that improve the lives of residents.
“Legacy is not about longevity. It is about impact. A leader can serve for a short period and still leave behind achievements that generations will remember,” he said.
In his acceptance speech, Kirop thanked the people of Endo Ward for electing him and pledged to use the remaining period of the current assembly term to advance development programmes and improve service delivery.
“I want to thank the people of Endo Ward for trusting me again. I thank God for this opportunity and the confidence the people have shown in me,” he said.
The MCA stated that his previous experience in the first County Assembly, would enable him to effectively discharge his responsibilities and ensure that residents receive the representation they deserve.
Kirop acknowledged that only one year remains before the end of the current Assembly term but assured residents that he would work closely with the County Assembly, County Executive, and other stakeholders, to ensure ongoing projects are completed on schedule.
“I know the expectations of the people of Endo Ward are high because they have gone for some time without representation. I am determined to spend every hour ensuring that projects earmarked for this year are implemented and completed on time,” he said.
The MCA commended the National government, security agencies and local communities for their efforts in restoring peace and stability in Kerio Valley, noting that the improved security environment has opened-up opportunities for investment and development.
“Today, you cannot hear a gunshot in Kerio Valley. We are now enjoying peace, and this has created an enabling environment for development,” he said.
Kirop said the improved security situation has facilitated the implementation of infrastructure projects, including road upgrades that are enhancing connectivity and opening-up the region for trade and investment.
He cited the ongoing improvement of the Chesoi–Tot road as one of the key projects expected to boost economic activities and improve access to essential services.
According to the MCA, continued investment in infrastructure, coupled with sustained peace, will support growth in agriculture, livestock production, tourism and other sectors that are critical to the region’s economy.
He called on investors and the business community to take advantage of the improved security and infrastructure to invest in Kerio Valley.
“The environment is now peaceful and conducive to investment. We have opportunities in agriculture, tourism, hospitality and other sectors that can create jobs and improve livelihoods,” he said.
Kirop also praised residents for embracing peace and returning to productive economic activities, noting that communities are increasingly benefiting from the stability that has been achieved.
“Our youth are back on their farms, our mothers are working hard and communities are rebuilding their livelihoods because of the peace we are enjoying today,” he said.
The MCA expressed optimism that continued collaboration among leaders, government institutions and residents would accelerate socio-economic transformation across Endo Ward and the wider Kerio Valley region.
by June Jebet and Rennish Okong’o
