Isiolo County stands at a pivotal moment in its history. The choice before us is clear: to embrace patience and trust in the Governor’s vision or to rush to judgment before the real work has even begun. In a world that is often quick to criticize, we must ask ourselves: Should we not give the Governor the time he needs to fulfill his promises and shape a brighter future for Isiolo? The challenges we face are deep-rooted and complex, and they cannot be solved overnight. It is time to prioritize progress over politics and allow the Governor the breathing space he deserves to implement his development agenda.
In just two years, the Governor has already achieved significant milestones. He has revived the 16-year-old stalled Isiolo abattoir, a project with the potential to transform the county’s economic fortunes. President Ruto himself has praised this achievement and pledged support to ensure the facility becomes operational by July. Additionally, the Governor is nearing completion of the Isiolo Market, which will provide a safe and organized space for traders who have long operated on the streets. These accomplishments are not mere rhetoric—they are tangible steps toward progress.
When the Governor appeared before the Senate County Public Accounts Committee, he addressed several audit queries, none of which pertained to his tenure. Instead, he answered for financial years overseen by his predecessor, Dr. Mohamed Kuti. Since taking office in August 2022, the Governor has been focused on implementing his second annual budget for FY 2024-2025, for which the auditor general’s report is yet to be released. He inherited a county burdened with stalled projects, incomplete initiatives, and pending bills amounting to millions. Despite these challenges, he has remained steadfast in his commitment to Isiolo’s development.
The Governor’s leadership has been tested time and again. Shortly after his election, a severe drought struck, affecting thousands of families. He suspended all development activities to direct resources toward supporting the hardest-hit areas, providing food rations and life-saving medications for malnourished children. When the drought ended, Isiolo faced the devastating effects of El-Nino rains. Once again, the Governor stepped up, ensuring families were supported—even airlifting food to areas cut off by flooding. In times of conflict, such as when bandits stole livestock, he acted swiftly to recover what was lost and restore security.
These actions demonstrate a leader who is not only responsive but also deeply committed to the well-being of his people. Under his leadership, over 30 boreholes have been drilled, 25 rehabilitated, and numerous incomplete projects have been completed. New dispensaries, ECD centers, and TVET institutions have been established, with more projects in the pipeline. As the Governor enters FY 2024-2025, he remains focused on the tasks ahead, fully aware of the high expectations placed upon him. His determination is unwavering, as he once declared, “Maendeleo mtameza kama quinine.”
The journey to prosperity is not a sprint; it is a marathon. Isiolo County cannot afford to be derailed by impatience or premature judgment. The Governor’s vision is clear, and his efforts are already yielding results. Let us refrain from hasty conclusions and instead commit to supporting his leadership. By giving him the time and space to implement his plans, we are investing in the future of our county. The results will speak louder than words, and the legacy we build together will be one of progress, unity, and hope.
The time for patience is now. The time for trust is now. Let us stand with the Governor as he works tirelessly to secure a brighter future for Isiolo County.
Ali Edin is a socio-political commentator from Isiolo.
