Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has declared that every part of Kenya is now fully included in national development programmes, ending what he termed as decades of regional discrimination.
Speaking during a visit to Marsabit on Friday, Kindiki assured residents that the Kenya Kwanza administration is committed to ensuring equal development opportunities for all 47 counties.
“There is no single national programme that is not taking place here in Marsabit and all the 47 counties of our country. That is how you build a strong country,” he said.
The DP emphasised that the era when certain regions were sidelined from development is over, noting that national growth must be shared equally.
“The history of discrimination where some regions were set aside and left behind in terms of development is long gone. Now is the time to bring equality all around, as Kenya belongs to us all,” Kindiki stated.
His remarks come amid intensified government efforts to roll out infrastructure, economic, and security initiatives in historically marginalised areas such as the North Eastern and Coastal regions.
Kindiki also highlighted a recent legislative milestone aimed at promoting inclusivity — the removal of extra vetting procedures for residents in border counties seeking national identification cards. Previously, communities in these areas had to undergo additional screening, a process widely viewed as discriminatory.
President William Ruto officially abolished the extra vetting requirements on February 5, 2025, paving the way for faster registration.
“I want to assure you that we are going to continue with the programme of speeding up the acquisition of ID cards. In just two weeks, we were able to register nearly 15,000 new people with IDs in this area,” Kindiki revealed.
On security, the DP expressed optimism, noting that Marsabit is now enjoying greater peace than in previous years.
“I thank God that Marsabit is now peaceful, and we pray it stays that way so you can live in peace, grow your county and live like the rest of the Kenyans,” he said.
The government’s pledge to bridge regional disparities is expected to foster unity, strengthen national cohesion, and create a more equitable Kenya for future generations.
