Isiolo, Kenya| In a resounding victory for the resilient communities of Isiolo County, Governor Abdi Ibrahim Guyo has successfully orchestrated the release of long-delayed land compensation funds for those impacted by the ambitious Horn of Africa Gateway Project (HoAGP).
This landmark achievement not only ends years of uncertainty and hardship for affected residents but also underscores Governor Guyo’s unwavering commitment to justice, development, and citizen-centered governance in one of Kenya’s most promising frontier regions.
The HoAGP, a transformative infrastructure initiative jointly funded by the World Bank and the Kenyan government, aims to upgrade the 740-kilometer Isiolo-Mandera road corridor, linking Kenya with Ethiopia and Somalia.
Valued at approximately Sh83.7 billion, the project promises to unlock unprecedented economic potential for northern Kenya by enhancing trade routes, improving connectivity, and fostering regional integration.
However, since its inception, the corridor’s development—spanning the Isiolo-Kulamawe-Garbatulla-Modogashe stretch—has been marred by bureaucratic hurdles, particularly concerning fair compensation for project-affected persons (PAPs).
Families displaced or disrupted by land acquisitions for road expansion have endured prolonged waits, with disruptions to livelihoods, businesses, and community structures testing their patience and resilience.
Governor Guyo, a dynamic and results-oriented leader elected in 2022, has positioned himself as the champion of these marginalized voices.
From the outset of his administration, he has prioritized addressing the compensation impasse, recognizing it as a critical barrier to inclusive progress.
His proactive advocacy culminated in a pivotal high-level meeting convened at his office in Isiolo, where key stakeholders converged to resolve the longstanding issues.
Leading the delegation from the National Land Commission (NLC) was Hon. Tiyah Galgalo, accompanied by representatives from the World Bank, the Northern Eastern Development Initiative (NEDI), and the Kenya National Highways Authority (KENHA).
The discussions, marked by a spirit of collaboration and urgency, focused squarely on expediting the disbursement of funds owed to PAPs, ensuring that every eligible individual receives their rightful dues without further delay.
What sets this breakthrough apart is Governor Guyo’s personal investment in the process. Not content with mere oversight, he took decisive action by directly engaging President William Ruto, leveraging his influence to dismantle entrenched bureaucratic bottlenecks that had stalled progress for years.
This hands-on approach—hosting the delegation, facilitating dialogue, and relentlessly following up with national agencies—exemplifies his leadership style: bold, transparent, and unyieldingly focused on delivering tangible results for Isiolo’s residents.
Sources close to the governor’s office reveal that his strategic interventions were instrumental in aligning the interests of international funders like the World Bank with local needs, transforming what could have remained a protracted stalemate into a swift resolution.
The impact of this victory reverberates far beyond financial restitution. For communities along the corridor, the funds represent more than compensation—they symbolize restored dignity and a pathway to rebuilding lives.
In Modogashe, one of the hardest-hit areas, elder Mzee Abdullah captured the collective sentiment in a heartfelt statement: “The people of Modogashe have waited long for this day. Governor Guyo’s dedication and consistent follow-up have finally brought justice to our community. His hands-on approach shows he truly cares for his people.”
Such testimonials highlight the governor’s deep-rooted connection to his constituents, many of whom hail from pastoralist backgrounds facing unique challenges in arid and semi-arid lands.
This milestone builds on earlier progress within the HoAGP framework, including the allocation of Sh770 million for community projects announced in May 2025, which Governor Guyo actively championed during stakeholder engagements.
These initiatives encompass water access improvements, educational facilities, and health services, designed to mitigate the project’s social impacts and amplify its benefits.
Under Guyo’s stewardship, Isiolo is not merely enduring development but thriving through it, with enhanced infrastructure poised to attract investments, boost tourism, and stimulate local economies.
The road upgrades are expected to reduce travel times dramatically, facilitating the movement of goods, people, and ideas across borders, while creating jobs and opportunities for youth in a region historically underserved.
Full credit for this accomplishment belongs to Governor Guyo and his dedicated team, whose tireless negotiations with national and international bodies have turned promises into reality.
By prioritizing accountability and efficiency, Guyo has shattered the cycle of delays that plagued similar projects in the past, setting a precedent for other counties.
His administration’s emphasis on citizen-focused governance—evident in transparent fund management and community consultations—ensures that the compensation process remains fair and verifiable, with safeguards against mismanagement.
As Isiolo County steps into a brighter future, Governor Abdi Guyo’s legacy as a transformative leader grows ever stronger.
In an era where political rhetoric often outpaces action, Guyo stands out as a beacon of integrity and resolve, committed to equitable development that leaves no one behind.
Residents can now look forward to not just compensation, but a cascade of progress: safer roads, vibrant markets, and a united community under visionary leadership.
With Governor Guyo at the helm, Isiolo is on the cusp of realizing its full potential, proving that bold advocacy can indeed deliver justice and prosperity for all.
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