Korr Town, Marsabit County| In a powerful symbol of inclusive governance, Marsabit County marked Kenya’s 62nd Jamhuri Day celebrations in the remote town of Korr, Laisamis Constituency, underscoring the transformative impact of devolution on historically marginalized arid regions.
Governor Mohamud Mohamed Ali, popularly known as Abshiro, took center stage at the event, delivering an impassioned address that blended national pride with urgent calls for unity, equitable development, and collective action against pressing challenges like climate change.
The choice of Korr as the venue was deliberate and profound. As Governor Abshiro eloquently stated, “Holding this year’s Jamhuri Day celebrations here in Korr is not a matter of convenience. It is a deliberate statement – that every corner of Marsabit counts; that every village, every town, every manyatta is part of the Republic and must feel the presence of the State.”
For decades, residents of Korr and similar remote areas endured long journeys to access basic government services. The 2025 celebrations brought the nation to their doorstep, honoring their resilience and affirming their place in Kenya’s narrative.
Reflecting on Kenya’s journey since independence in 1963 and the establishment of the Republic in 1964, Governor Abshiro paid tribute to the freedom fighters whose sacrifices birthed the nation.
“We pay profound tribute to the gallant sons and daughters of Kenya whose sacrifices delivered us from colonial rule,” he said, while acknowledging divine guidance through the country’s triumphs and trials.
He candidly assessed progress, noting that while Kenya is “richer, healthier and better educated today than it was in 1963,” uneven development has persisted, particularly in Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASAL) like Marsabit. The 2010 Constitution and devolution, however, have been game-changers.
“In just over a decade, devolution has delivered in counties what could not be achieved in the previous five decades: roads have reached villages that were once forgotten, health facilities, water, education and public services have moved nearer to communities that previously felt abandoned,” the Governor emphasized.
In Marsabit, these gains are tangible—from improved infrastructure in Moyale and Sololo to enhanced services in North Horr, Loiyangalani, and Korr itself.
A highlight of the address was the announcement of expanded administrative decentralization. Governor Abshiro proudly reported the establishment of eight new sub-counties, including the newest: Kurkum, Jaldesa, Uran, and Illeret.
These units bring chiefs, administrators, and tailored services closer to residents, reducing travel burdens and enabling faster responses to emergencies like droughts or insecurity.
He extended gratitude to President William Ruto and the Kenya Kwanza administration for supporting these initiatives, recognizing the historical marginalization of ASAL counties.
“We shall continue to nurture this partnership so that every part of Marsabit feels the comforting presence of the Republic and enjoys equal opportunity to thrive,” he affirmed.
This move has been hailed as transformative. Deputy Governor John Gubo described it as “historic,” noting that government offices, including those of the Deputy County Commissioner, are now fully operational in Korr.
Local MP Joseph Lekuton and several Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) echoed this, praising the creation of new locations and sub-locations for generating jobs and opportunities for youth.
Community elders, including Mzee Alwale, reserved special appreciation for Governor Abshiro’s tireless advocacy.
“We thank our Governor for always standing with us and never forgetting Korr,” he said, reflecting widespread gratitude for the leader’s hands-on, accessible approach repeatedly acknowledged by assembly leaders and grassroots voices.
Yet, amid the celebrations, Governor Abshiro confronted the stark reality of climate change—the “single most serious threat to the pastoralist way of life.” Recurring droughts, livestock losses, and shrinking water sources have intensified pressures on traditional livelihoods.
Recent forecasts indicate below-average short rains, placing Marsabit in the “Alert” drought phase, according to the National Drought Management Authority (NDMA).
The county requires an estimated Ksh. 600 million for urgent interventions, including relief food, water trucking, and health support for vulnerable groups.
While county efforts—investments in boreholes, dams, resilience programs, bursaries, and road improvements—continue, the Governor appealed to development partners and humanitarian agencies for swift support.
“Let us act fast and complement government efforts so that no life is lost and no family is abandoned,” he urged.
Peace emerged as another cornerstone of his message. Marsabit has enjoyed relative stability in recent years, with communities rebuilding trust.
“We must never take this peace for granted. It is the foundation upon which everything else stands,” Governor Abshiro warned, calling on leaders, elders, youth, women, and religious groups to reject division, hate, and mobilization along clan or ethnic lines.
“Marsabit is our shared home. Kenya is our shared Republic. Let us make a solemn vow that never again will we allow the blood of our brother or sister to be shed because of the ambitions of politicians.”
He challenged citizens to contribute actively: parents to educate children in values of hard work and patriotism, youth to pursue skills and innovation, and elders to guide toward reconciliation.
As the event concluded, Governor Abshiro wished residents blessed festivities and a prosperous new year, praying for a secure, peaceful Marsabit where compassion prevails.
The Korr celebrations exemplified Governor Abshiro’s visionary leadership, blending reflection on Kenya’s independence with actionable commitments to equity, resilience, and unity in one of the nation’s most challenging yet resilient counties.
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