It’s not a joke, Isiolo-Mandera road will be constructed

President William Ruto has reiterated the government’s commitment to completing the 750-kilometer Isiolo-Mandera road project which he pledged during his visit to Northern Kenya earlier this month.

Speaking on Tuesday, Ruto said the road is a key part of his administration’s agenda to ensure equal development across all regions, particularly areas that have been historically marginalised.

“I was in Northern Kenya and announced a major road project that will be constructed from Isiolo through Wajir to Mandera, and many people think it is a joke. In this country, sometimes we take matters of life and death as if it is a joke,” said Ruto.

“I am committed to delivering the 750-kilometer road from Isiolo to Mandera because, for a very long time, we have left Northern Kenya behind,” he added.

The President’s comments come amid online criticism targeting his detailed knowledge of roads and towns in Mandera and Isiolo.

On Tuesday, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki hit back at critics saying the government is focused on delivering key projects on time.

“I was with the President the other day in Northern Kenya. I saw some people making fun of the long road he was explaining, and actually, I was very happy when I saw people trying to mock the President because I have information they don’t have, this road is going to be constructed,” said Kindiki.

“People can mock us online, but we are delivering. This project is not just talk work is ongoing, and it will be completed before 2027,” he added.