NAIROBI — The Kenyan government has reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with leaders from Northern Kenya to address long-standing challenges affecting residents and accelerate the region’s economic and social transformation.
Speaking during a meeting at State House Nairobi with leaders from Isiolo, Marsabit, Garissa, Wajir and Mandera counties, government officials said deliberate policies and targeted investments are being implemented to address historical marginalisation by expanding access to essential services, improving infrastructure and creating new economic opportunities.
The meeting brought together regional leaders led by Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, alongside Governors Ahmed Abdullahi of Wajir, Nathif Jama of Garissa and Mohamed Khalif of Mandera. Discussions focused on development priorities including infrastructure expansion, energy access, water security, agriculture and job creation.
The government said the newly established National Infrastructure Fund will play a central role in financing major projects aimed at unlocking the economic potential of Northern Kenya. The fund is expected to support investments in energy generation, water harvesting and storage facilities, irrigation networks and other strategic infrastructure needed to boost industrial and agricultural growth.
Northern Kenya has historically faced challenges including limited infrastructure, water shortages, unemployment and reduced access to public services. Authorities said the current development strategy seeks to close these gaps by promoting equitable resource allocation and ensuring that communities in the region benefit from national development programmes.
The leaders also highlighted the importance of partnerships between the national government and county administrations in implementing projects that respond to local needs. They said improved coordination would help deliver sustainable development and strengthen economic opportunities for communities across the northern counties.
The government maintained that transforming Northern Kenya remains a key priority under its broader development agenda, with investments in infrastructure, human capital and economic empowerment expected to drive long-term growth and improve living standards for millions of residents.
