By Abdihakim Siyad
Ashabito, Mandera North- In a historic and transformative milestone for the people of Mandera North Constituency , Ashabito has officially been launched as a fully operational sub-county under the Mandera County administration.
The colorful event, held in Ashabito, was graced by high-ranking leaders from both national and county governments, signaling a new era for governance, security, and service delivery in the region.
IN PICTURES: Cabinet Secretary for Public Service and Human Capital Development, Geoffrey Ruku, on Tuesday officially inaugurated Ashabito Sub-County in Mandera North.
He was accompanied by Mandera North MP Bashir Abdullahi, the county Governor Mohamed Adan Khalif, and other… pic.twitter.com/xX46mJXA6K
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The Chief Guest, Cabinet Secretary for Public Service and Special Programs Geoffrey Ruku, presided over the event, alongside Mandera Governor Mohamed Adan Khalif, Deputy Governor Ali Maalim, Mandera North MP Major (Rtd) Bashir Abdullahi, Wajir East MP, Mandera and Wajir County Women Representatives, nominated leaders, county MCAs, respected clan elders, and hundreds of enthusiastic local residents.
Governor Mohamed Khalif: Development, Justice, and Peace Go Hand in Hand
Governor Khalif used the momentous occasion to unveil key development projects that will now take root in Ashabito under the new sub-county status.
These include the construction of a modern hospital, new roads, and the appointment of a County Administrator to manage and streamline county services locally.
However, the Governor was equally stern on matters of insecurity, following recent inter-clan clashes that left eight people dead in the area.
“All the perpetrators of the heinous act will be brought back by the 18th of this month,” he said. “Whether they are from Ethiopia or Kenya, they will be brought back and will face the full force of the law. Whether they are Degodia or Garre, they must be brought back.”
His remarks were met with applause, as residents welcomed the County Government’s renewed stance on peace and justice.
Deputy Governor Ali Maalim: “The Wait Was Worth It”
In his address, Deputy Governor Ali Maalim reaffirmed that the Ashabito Sub-County launch would drastically decentralize service delivery and bring the government closer to the people.
“The launch of Ashabito Sub-County brings government services to the doorsteps of our people. I thank the people of Mandera North for their patience during difficult times, especially during inter-clan conflicts. I urge them to continue walking the path of peace and resilience.”
He highlighted that Ashabito’s long wait for recognition had finally paid off.
CS Geoffrey Ruku: A Turning Point for Marginalized Regions
Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku delivered a powerful keynote address, emphasizing government reforms in public service, equity, and youth empowerment.
“Marginalized communities will no longer be left behind. Government services are now coming closer to the people of Ashabito,” he stated.
He issued a strong warning to government officers who fail to serve diligently:
“Any public servant not providing efficient services to the people – action will be taken against them. We are serious about accountability.”
On youth empowerment, he made a major announcement regarding the National Youth Service (NYS), revealing that the intake will double from 20,000 to 40,000 starting next year. He urged parents to prepare their children, particularly those who are out of school or unemployed, to take advantage of the NYS opportunities.
“From next year, the NYS intake will double,” he stated. “There will be high demand, and we want our youth from Ashabito to benefit from this opportunity.”
CS Ruku also touched on security challenges, calling for both administrative and cultural solutions:
“Security agencies must act swiftly against any perpetrators. At the same time, clan elders must come together, sit down, and bring an end to these clashes. This is urgent and necessary.”
MP Bashir Abdullahi: “A Grateful and Historic Day”
Host MP Major (Rtd) Bashir Abdullahi expressed deep gratitude to the government and the people for supporting the elevation of Ashabito to sub-county status.
“This is a grateful and historic day for the people of Mandera North,” said MP Abdullahi. “The launch of Ashabito Sub-County reflects our shared commitment to progress, development, and peace. My commitment…”
After the launch of the Sub-County, the delegation led CS Ruku oversaw the distribution of relief food supplies to vulnerable families and launched the Mandera North bursary fund, valued at Ksh 39.8 million, to support education in the constituency.
