Isiolo County Government, under the leadership of H.E Ibrahim Hassan, has launched a significant initiative to draft its inaugural 10-year county spatial plan since the onset of devolution.
This strategic plan, mandated by the County Government Act of 2012, holds pivotal importance in shaping the county’s future developmental trajectory.
Through an extensive public participation process spearheaded by the Department of Lands and Physical Planning, the county has taken substantial strides towards fostering inclusive governance.
Francis Lekalasimi, Chief Officer of Lands and Physical Planning, underscored the critical role of community engagement, stating, “Public participation ensures inclusivity of people’s priorities in our development agenda.”
This sentiment reverberated during consultations conducted across all wards, where a diverse array of stakeholders—including women, men, religious leaders, business representatives, and rangeland committees—actively contributed their visions for Isiolo’s next decade.
Reflecting on the comprehensive engagement, Isiolo County Secretary Dade Boru affirmed, “This platform enables the community to directly express their aspirations to the government.”
Joined by Isiolo Municipality Manager Osman Halake, Boru highlighted the transformative potential of the forthcoming 10-year development plans.
These initiatives aim to elevate Isiolo to city status and establish municipalities in key towns, promising expanded employment opportunities for residents.
Lekalasimi assured residents of the transparency of the process, stating, “The lands department is currently in the process of reviewing public input from all wards and sectors.
Once the draft is finalized, it will be presented to the county executive and county assembly for review before being returned to the public for validation.”
Local residents expressed gratitude for the chance to contribute to the county’s development agenda.
Halima Ibrahim from Bullapessa voiced optimism that their recommendations, particularly those concerning improved infrastructure such as electricity and water supply, would be integrated into the final plan.
The culmination of these consultations represents a significant leap forward for Isiolo County, underscoring its dedication to accountable governance and community-centric development planning.
As the county prepares to submit the finalized plan to the executive and county assembly, the voices and aspirations of its people remain at the heart of its agenda.