Interior Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo has urged Coast leaders to unite in advancing peace, justice, and inclusive development in the region. Speaking during a Coast Parliamentary Group (CPG) retreat held in Kisumu, Dr. Omollo emphasized the need for strategic leadership and collaboration among government agencies to address critical regional challenges.
He called for synergy, particularly in the water, shipping, and marine sectors, to eliminate duplication and improve service delivery. Omollo proposed the formation of a joint taskforce between the Lands Ministry and the Judiciary to fast-track land and political violence cases. He also urged support for legislative reforms targeting hate speech, electoral conduct, land injustice, and gender-based violence.
Highlighting recent milestones, the PS cited the Dongo Kundu Bypass, the ongoing upgrade of the Mombasa–Mtwapa–Kilifi Road, and the Galana-Kulalu Food Security Project as prime examples of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda in action. These developments, he said, are set to improve connectivity, stimulate economic activities, and create jobs for youth.
Dr. Omollo stressed the importance of aligning national priorities with regional needs and commended the CPG for its engagement with national agencies. He encouraged the 47-member caucus to use its collective strength to lobby for Coast-specific investments, including solar energy to reduce electricity costs and ensure the affordability of essential services like water.
On security, he underscored the efforts of National Government Administrative Officers (NGAOs) in facilitating school transitions, healthcare enrolment, and farmer registration. Through platforms like Jukwaa la Usalama, the Ministry is integrating community feedback into responsive security strategies.
Omollo also urged MPs to push for the completion of stalled infrastructure projects, especially LAPSSET roads, through strategic lobbying during the budget-making process.
CPG Chair Danson Mwashako echoed the PS’s sentiments, emphasizing that development cannot thrive without security. He called for collective action to resolve persistent boundary disputes and rising gun-related crimes.
The retreat provided a platform for Coast leaders to assess development progress, voice concerns, and chart a unified course toward inclusive regional growth.
