In a significant move aimed at accelerating regional development and boosting national economic growth, President William Ruto on Monday held a high-level meeting with Isiolo Governor Abdi Ibrahim Hassan (commonly known as Guyo) at State House, Nairobi.
The talks focused on unlocking Isiolo County’s untapped potential through a series of transformative projects, aligned with the broader Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
At the core of their deliberations was the long-awaited operationalization of the Isiolo Export Abattoir—a flagship project expected to become a game-changer for Kenya’s meat industry.
The abattoir, once fully functional, is anticipated to enhance livestock value chains by creating market access for pastoralist communities, promoting hygiene and quality standards in meat processing, and boosting exports, thereby improving incomes and food security.
The leaders also explored plans to establish modern marketplaces across Isiolo County.
These market hubs are intended to stimulate local commerce, support small-scale traders, and formalize regional trade by offering secure, accessible, and regulated spaces for business activity.
Such infrastructure is crucial in integrating remote counties into the national economic fabric.
Water security also featured prominently in the discussions. The fast-tracking of the Crocodile Jaw Dam—a key water project—was identified as a top priority.
The dam is designed to provide sustainable water supply for both domestic consumption and irrigation, addressing chronic water scarcity challenges that have historically plagued the arid and semi-arid county.
Beyond infrastructure and economic initiatives, President Ruto and Governor Guyo stressed the importance of political unity and coordinated planning.
They called for a consultative forum involving Isiolo’s Members of Parliament and Members of County Assembly to align grassroots priorities with county and national development plans.
Such collaboration, they noted, is essential for ensuring that investments are impactful, inclusive, and sustainable.
Following the meeting, Governor Guyo released a statement outlining the key outcomes of the talks.
He noted that their discussions had centered on advancing several priority projects, foremost among them the operationalization of the Isiolo Export Abattoir.
According to the governor, the facility will play a crucial role in enhancing Kenya’s meat industry, benefiting both local producers and the broader economy.
Governor Guyo also highlighted plans for the establishment of modern marketplaces aimed at driving trade and supporting the local business community.
He emphasized that such developments would create opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises across the county.
In addition, the governor stated that the fast-tracking of the Crocodile Jaw Dam was a critical focus area, given the urgent need for sustainable access to water for households and agriculture.
He further revealed that both leaders had agreed on the importance of convening Isiolo’s elected leadership—including MPs and MCAs—for joint planning sessions to harmonize development priorities at both the grassroots and county levels.
Concluding his remarks, Governor Guyo commended President Ruto for what he described as “an unwavering commitment to driving transformative initiatives” that will help unlock Isiolo’s full potential and contribute meaningfully to Kenya’s continued growth and prosperity.
The meeting reflects the growing emphasis by the national government on equitable development across all counties, particularly those in marginalized and underserved regions.
Isiolo, strategically located at the heart of Kenya, has long been identified as a gateway for regional trade and a critical node in the country’s Vision 2030 blueprint.
The renewed focus on strategic investments marks a pivotal moment for the county’s development trajectory.
As implementation of these initiatives gains momentum, eyes will be on the collaboration between the national government and county leadership to ensure timely delivery, accountability, and lasting impact for the people of Isiolo.
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