By J, KNA
Uasin Gishu County Governor Dr Jonathan Bii Chelilim has commissioned a major rural and urban road improvement programme covering over 700 kilometres, aimed at improving livelihoods and accelerating economic growth across the county.
The programme was officially launched in the Sinonin area of Soy Sub-County, where the Governor said the initiative is part of his administration’s broader agenda to transform lives through improved infrastructure. The project will be implemented jointly by the county government and the National Youth Service (NYS).
Under the programme, roads across various wards will be graded and gravelled, with works expected to commence immediately and be completed before the onset of the next rainy season.
Speaking during the launch, Governor Bii reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to infrastructure development, noting that improved road networks are critical in boosting agriculture, trade, and access to essential services.
“My administration developed this elaborate plan under Nguzo Six to continually improve all roads, foster economic growth, and enhance livelihoods for all residents,” said the Governor.
He assured residents that the programme would be implemented equitably across all wards, adding that the partnership with NYS was aimed at increasing capacity to repair as many roads as possible within a short time frame. He noted that many roads were severely damaged by heavy rains experienced last year.
Uasin Gishu Deputy Governor Evans Kapkea urged the NYS team to remain focused and committed to delivering the programme within the stipulated timeline. He emphasized that the county government would provide full support throughout the implementation period.
“This programme is a major transformative infrastructure initiative for this administration, and we will work closely with the NYS team to ensure its success,” Kapkea said.
NYS Assistant Commandant General Philip Koech assured residents that the service would execute the project professionally, transparently, and without bias. He pledged that the team would adhere to timelines and ensure value for money.
Members of the County Assembly, led by Majority Leader Julius Sang and Soy MCA Isaac Chirchir, underscored the importance of the initiative in strengthening the county’s road network to support prosperity and development.
County Executive Committee Member for Roads, Transport and Public Works Abraham Serem thanked the Governor for prioritizing infrastructure development and urged residents to cooperate with the NYS teams on the ground to ensure smooth implementation.
Residents of Sinonin, represented by John Maiyo and Jenipher Lelei, welcomed the programme, saying improved roads would ease transportation and enhance access to markets. They urged Members of the County Assembly to allocate adequate funds to support the initiative.
Several county officials attended the event, including CECMs Janet Koech (Health), Antony Sitienei (Water), Robert Kemei (Sports), Lucy Ng’endo (Education), Edward Sawe (Lands), and chief officers from various departments.