Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has declared that banditry in Baringo County has been largely contained, marking a significant shift in the region’s security landscape and paving the way for development.
Speaking during a development tour in Mogotio, Kindiki said areas once plagued by insecurity have stabilised, allowing displaced residents to return home and resume normal economic and social activities.
He attributed the improved security situation to coordinated efforts between national security agencies and local leadership, noting that sustained operations have restored order in previously volatile areas.
“Baringo was once notorious for banditry, especially in the southern parts, but the situation has now stabilised. People have returned home and normalcy has been restored,” Kindiki said.
The Deputy President noted that the return of peace has enabled schools to reopen, businesses to operate without disruption and pastoral communities to move more freely without fear of attacks.
Shift to development after security gains
With security concerns easing, the government is now shifting focus toward accelerating development projects across the county. Kindiki said improved stability has opened opportunities for investment in infrastructure and public services.
Among the key projects is the ongoing construction of the Mogotio Lake Bogoria Kapkitur Kisanana Kamukunji road, a 78 kilometre corridor valued at KSh3.7 billion. The road is expected to enhance connectivity, boost trade and support tourism in the region.
In total, the government is implementing approximately 854 kilometres of road projects in Baringo at a combined cost of KSh32 billion, positioning the county as a major beneficiary of the national infrastructure expansion programme.
Electrification efforts are also underway, with projects worth KSh712 million aimed at expanding access to power. In Mogotio Constituency alone, 17 last mile connectivity projects are in progress, targeting more than 10,000 households at a cost of KSh145 million.
Kindiki said the government is also addressing broader economic challenges, including the rising cost of fuel, noting that global factors largely drive prices.
“The increase in fuel prices is a global issue. The solution lies in policy, not protests,” he said, adding that the government has already reduced VAT on fuel from 16% to 8% to ease pressure on consumers.
He added that the settlement of KSh177 billion in pending bills dating back to 2020 has helped stabilise the economy and support contractors involved in public projects.
The Deputy President urged residents to register as voters, saying participation in elections is key to shaping leadership and development priorities.
He also encouraged contractors to maintain high standards in project implementation and involve local communities to ensure long term benefits.
Kindiki expressed optimism that sustained security and ongoing investments will transform Baringo into a hub of economic activity, improving livelihoods and fostering inclusive growth across the county.
