Kisii Governor James Ongwae has called on chiefs to collaborate with County Government officials at the grassroots for enhanced service delivery to residents.
Governor Ongwae said both National and County Governments had an objective of serving the same mwananchi hence the need for joint efforts in implementing development projects.
He spoke at the Kisii County Commissioner’s office during the presentation of 105 motorbikes to chiefs in the area. Nyanza Regional Coordinator Wilson Mutie and new Kisii County Commissioner Kula Hache presided over the function.
“As a County, we have officers working in the devolved units as Sub County and Ward administrators. We need to work closely at the grassroots to ensure development projects actualize the aspirations of residents. Chiefs need to support our devolved units through joint meetings and regular consultations,” said Ongwae.
He said his government started working with the National Government representatives on the ground right from the start with an objective of serving residents.
“I welcome the distribution of motorbikes because it will definitely improve service delivery. The County Government has a big challenge in availing transport for officers at the grassroots but we are working to address this. As chiefs, you need to work with these officers especially in identifying sites for development projects to limit political interference,” said Ongwae.
He challenged chiefs to safeguard projects initiated by the County Government citing a recent incident where unknown people vandalised solar powered street lights in Kitutu Chache North saying it impeded development. He said the County has issued a KShs.50, 000 bounty for anyone with information leading to the arrest of the suspects.
Deputy Governor Joash Maangi who accompanied the Governor said there was need for elected leadership in the County to work with the ministry of interior and coordination of Government for socio-economic development.
Regional Coordinator, Mr Njenga commended the Governor for good relations with National Government officials saying the two levels were mutually interdependent. He warned that lazy chiefs will be sacked while those who show merit will be promoted.
At the same time, Governor Ongwae condemned last weekend’s student riots at Itierio Secondary where 7 dormitories were torched. He said the incident was disturbing because students lost all personal effects adding that such a level of madness was difficult to understand.
