We’ll defend Kenya’s peace and security at all costs: DP Kindiki

Speaking on Thursday when he presided over Taveta Economic Empowerment engagement at Satoo Grounds in Taveta town, Prof. Kindiki said development can only be advanced in a peaceful and stable environment.  

“National security is critical, without it we would not develop the nation, we cannot build roads, markets, extend electricity connections if there is no peace,” he said. 

“We are ready to defend the nation’s peace and security by every means possible, even if we lose popularity because the nation comes first, then everything else.” 

The DP, who also graced Mwatate Economic Empowerment in the same county, encouraged Kenyans to freely express their opinions but ensure it is done peacefully. 

“Everybody is free to air their views, to give their opinions and disagree with the government but you must do so peacefully and without arms. Anybody who does the contrary is an enemy of Kenya and wants to bring this nation down,” he indicated. 

He also beseeched citizens to embrace each other and avoid politicians out to divide them along tribal lines.

“Don’t be misled into entertaining tribal divisions because it is harmful to our efforts to unite the nation. Let us live in peace and unity for our nation’s prosperity.”

At the event, the Deputy President outlined government-funded development programs being rolled out in the County including the construction of the 70km Taveta-Njukini-Chala-Rombo-Ilasit Road. 

The Ksh.9.4 billion road links in Taita Taveta and Kajiado Counties.

“The contractor has commenced construction of the road and it will be completed on time. It is a huge project. It will open up the region to economic transformation and ease transportation of goods and movement of people,” he said. 

To ease access to land registry services, the government will open a Lands Registry office in Taveta town as requested by residents when the DP recently visited the county.

“We have finalized the preliminary procedures for its opening and it is just awaiting Gazettement. What you assigned me, I am working hard to achieve it because it is our work to serve wananchi,” he revealed.

According to Kindiki, the government is building over 1,000 affordable houses in Taveta town worth Ksh.2.2 billion and new 580 units worth Ksh.400 million for Taveta KMTC campus under the affordable housing program. 

He added that the State is building new modern markets in Mwatate, Voi, and Wundayi towns in line with its promise to provide decent places for business for mama mboga and small-scale traders under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.

Under the ongoing last-mile electricity connection, the county was allocated Ksh.767 million to make power accessible to more residents.

“We will consider additional allocations to the county’s kitty under this rural electricity expansion program,” he promised. 

The DP also called on residents to register for health coverage under Taifa Care, saying it is meant to cover medical expenses for all Kenyans. 

“Access to healthcare is a right of all Kenyans. Kitambo tulikuwa na Linda Mama, sasa ni linda mama, linda baba, linda mtoto, linda kila mtu. We have so far registered over 24 million Kenyans for coverage under Taifa Care,” he said. 

Prof. Kindiki also said the government is looking into how to waive Agriculture Finance Corporation loans as requested by the residents.