By Wakhungu Andanje
Kakamega Governor Fernandez Barasa has dismissed criticism of underdevelopment in his administration, asserting that he remains focused on delivering transformative projects for the county. Speaking at Malava during the conferment of the area into a municipality, Barasa assured residents of his commitment to meeting their aspirations and warned detractors against derailing his agenda.
“I will not be derailed by baseless sentiments from my political competitors,” Barasa said. “We are initiating transformative projects across the sub-counties, and Kakamega is on the right path to development.”
Municipality Milestone for Malava
Malava has officially become Kakamega County’s fourth municipality after Butere, with Matunda set to follow. The municipality status is expected to boost development, infrastructure, and job creation. Barasa announced that 80% of the municipal workforce would be sourced locally, with Msafiri Kulova appointed as the municipality’s Chief Executive Officer.
Kakamega Governor Fernandez Barasa presides over the unveiling of Malava, which has officially become Kakamega County’s fourth municipality after Butere, with Matunda set to follow. [Photo: Wakhungu Andanje]
“This is a historic day for Malava,” Barasa said. “With the municipality in place, we expect significant investments, improved infrastructure such as roads, water, and sewerage systems, and the establishment of financial institutions to spur economic growth.”
Ongoing and Planned Development Projects
Barasa highlighted several ongoing and planned projects in Malava, including:
- Malava Dairy Project: Completion expected by early 2025, with a 7.6-kilometer access road nearing finalization.
- Roads: Butali-Malekha Road is included in the next financial year, while Samitsi-Navakholo Road will be tarmacked under a national government initiative.
- Bridges: Several across the sub-county are set for commissioning by February 2025.
Additionally, Kakamega County has procured Ksh 150 million worth of drugs for health facilities and increased grants for women and youth groups from 15 to 20 groups per ward, with each group receiving Ksh 50,000.
Political Landscape and Criticism
Barasa took a swipe at political opponents, including Women Representative Elsie Muhanda, who has declared interest in the 2027 gubernatorial race. “The position will not be vacant for the next ten years,” Barasa quipped, urging competitors to focus on their current roles.
Deputy Governor Ayub Savula echoed Barasa’s sentiments, emphasizing their strong partnership and readiness to serve two terms. Malava MP Malulu Injendi lauded Barasa for elevating Malava to a municipality and urged unity among leaders to achieve development goals.
Injendi also criticized social media campaigns painting Barasa’s administration as ineffective in Malava, urging locals to support the governor. “With municipality status, World Bank funding will flow, bringing opportunities and growth,” he said.
The county is currently hosting the 11th edition of the Kenya Inter-County Sports and Cultural Association (KICOSCA) games, which brings together teams from all 47 counties.
Governor Barasa assured residents that his administration is on track to deliver impactful projects, urging all stakeholders to rally behind his leadership for the prosperity of Kakamega County.
