Governor Nathif Jama on Saturday, August 16, commissioned new development projects which he described as ‘a bold testament’ to his commitment to devolution and shared prosperity for Kenyans in Garissa.

The projects include the new Balambala Municipality Headquarters, a modern market, a refurbished and expanded Level IV hospital, a revitalised library, and the Balambala Libiley Water Project.

Governor Jama said the investments were designed to ensure that “every corner of Garissa County is part of our journey towards inclusive growth, opportunity, and prosperity.”

He was joined at the event by Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, Garissa Senator Abdul Haji, Members of Parliament, county leaders, and members of the public.

CS Duale, who attended as chief guest, called for leaders and citizens to rise above divisive politics and embrace unity.

He also presided over the close of a three-day free medical and surgical camp held at Balambala Primary School.

The camp provided healthcare to more than 2,000 residents, including check-ups, health education, and surgeries.

About 1,786 people were registered under the new Social Health Authority scheme, part of the government’s Universal Health Coverage agenda.

A blood transfusion drive was also carried out to boost safe blood supply in the county.

Garissa Senator Abdul Haji said the launch of the municipality and accompanying projects represented more than just physical infrastructure.

“These developments are a platform for residents to actively participate in the progress of Balambala,” he said.

Senator Haji urged the county government to allocate adequate resources and ensure proper management of the new institutions.

Sheikh Osman Haji, a resident of Balambala said the projects will improve access to healthcare, strengthen local governance, boost commerce, and tackle long-standing water scarcity in the area.

“The new facilities we hope are the beginning of efforts that will deliver development across Garissa,” he said.

The event was attended by a host of leaders, including Garissa County Commissioner Mohamed Mwabudzo, Garissa Woman Representative Amina Udgoon, Balambala MP Abdi Shurie, Fafi MP Sala Yakub, Garissa Township MP Maj. (Rtd) Dekow Barrow, Lagdera MP Abdikadir Hussein, Ijara MP Abdi Ali, Nominated MP Umulkheir Harun and Former Ijara MP Ibrahim Abass.