West Pokot County Commissioner David Saruni has hailed the progress of national government development projects across the county, noting that the visible transformation marks a significant milestone in improving livelihoods and unlocking the region’s economic potential.
Speaking during an inspection tour of ongoing projects in Pokot Central Sub-County, Saruni said investments in infrastructure, water, agriculture, education, and security are already bearing positive results.
He said the initiatives are designed to address long-standing challenges such as marginalization, poor connectivity, and limited access to essential services.
“The transformation we are witnessing across West Pokot is a clear indication that development is taking root. These projects are improving livelihoods and opening up the region economically,” said Saruni.
Among the key projects is the Weiwei irrigation scheme, which is enhancing food security while creating income opportunities for local farmers.
Saruni also highlighted the ongoing construction of the Barpelo–Tot–Marich Pass road, launched earlier this year by President William Samoei Ruto.
The road links West Pokot to Elgeyo Marakwet and Baringo counties and is expected to boost trade, improve security in the Kerio Valley, and ease movement of goods and people.
“The road is a game changer for this region. It will shorten travel time, improve trade, and strengthen security along this corridor,” he said.
He noted that sections of the road have already been tarmacked, while contractors continue working on remaining stretches, including culverts and bridges to ensure proper drainage and durability.
Saruni added that the improved road network will connect residents more efficiently to key towns such as Nakuru and Lodwar and strengthen regional trade links, including routes towards South Sudan.
On water development, he disclosed that the Muruny–Siyoi dam project is about 90 percent complete and will soon supply clean water to Makutano and surrounding areas.
“This dam will be crucial in improving access to clean water, sanitation, and overall public health in Makutano and Chepareria,” he said.
An irrigation initiative linked to Turkwel Dam is also underway to benefit communities in lower Turkwel while enhancing water access for both West Pokot and neighbouring Turkana County.
Saruni further highlighted other ongoing programmes, including affordable housing, construction of hostels for learning institutions, livestock insurance, and development of markets in Sigor and Makutano.
He said youth empowerment initiatives such as the NYOTA programme are equipping young people with entrepreneurial skills and startup capital.
“We want our youth to be economically empowered so they can create opportunities for themselves instead of depending on limited jobs,” he noted.
On agriculture, he urged farmers to take advantage of the government’s subsidised fertiliser programme to increase productivity and ensure food security.
On security, Saruni commended residents for supporting disarmament efforts, saying the surrender of illegal firearms has improved peace in the region.
Residents welcomed the developments. “This area is changing rapidly. We now have roads and improved security that allow us to farm and trade freely,” said Philip Kang’eran from Lomut.
Another resident, Nicholas Kidemoi, said the new road will ease transport of goods to Kapenguria and Kitale. “We can now move our produce faster and at lower cost,” he said.
Saruni urged residents to continue supporting ongoing projects, saying they are key to sustainable development and long-term economic growth in West Pokot.
By Antony Melly
