President William Ruto has said improved security across Northern Kenya is creating a conducive environment for economic growth, investment, and development, enabling residents to fully participate in productive economic activities.
Speaking during an inspection tour of the ongoing Isiolo-Mandera Road project in Tarbaj Constituency, Wajir County, the President noted that sustained investments in security have transformed the region and laid the groundwork for accelerated development.
According to President Ruto, the government is now focusing on unlocking Northern Kenya’s vast economic potential through major infrastructure projects designed to improve connectivity and stimulate trade.
KSh100 Billion Horn of Africa Gateway Project
At the centre of these efforts is the Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project, a flagship KSh100 billion road infrastructure programme stretching approximately 750 kilometres from Isiolo to Mandera through Wajir.
The strategic transport corridor traverses Isiolo, Meru, Garissa, Wajir and Mandera counties, linking Northern Kenya to neighbouring Ethiopia and Somalia while opening up new opportunities for commerce and investment.
President Ruto said the project is expected to significantly improve the movement of people and goods, lower transportation costs and enhance access to local and regional markets.
“The improved security situation has created a stable environment that allows us to focus on development. Through strategic investments in infrastructure, we are unlocking opportunities for trade, investment and economic transformation across Northern Kenya,” he said.
Boosting Trade and Livestock Economy
The Head of State noted that the new corridor will play a critical role in supporting cross-border trade and strengthening the livestock sector, which remains one of the region’s most important economic pillars.
By improving road connectivity, pastoral communities will gain easier access to markets, reducing post-harvest losses and increasing earnings for livestock farmers and traders.
The project is also expected to facilitate the movement of goods between Kenya, Ethiopia and Somalia, positioning Northern Kenya as a key regional trade hub.
Progress on Tarbaj-Kotulo Road Section
During the visit, President Ruto inspected construction works on the 64-kilometre Tarbaj-Kotulo section of the Isiolo-Mandera Road, one of the major segments of the broader corridor.
The government has engaged more than 11 contractors across various sections of the expansive project to ensure timely implementation and completion within the stipulated timeframe.
Officials overseeing the project reported steady progress on construction works, with several sections already taking shape as efforts continue to modernise the region’s transport infrastructure.
Driving Inclusive Growth
President Ruto reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring that all parts of the country benefit from development initiatives, emphasizing that infrastructure remains a key driver of economic transformation.
He said investments in roads, security, education and healthcare are intended to create sustainable opportunities for residents while integrating Northern Kenya more closely into the national and regional economy.
“The transformation of Northern Kenya is well underway. Through improved security, strategic infrastructure and targeted investments, we are creating new opportunities for prosperity and inclusive growth for our people,” President Ruto said.
