Marsabit County Government Press Service

21/10/2025

First Lady Champions Early Childhood Education

Tuesday, October 21, 2025
Uran Godha Primary School, Uran Ward, Moyale Sub County

County First Lady, Alamitu Guyo Jattani, today launched a comprehensive initiative to boost Early Childhood Development and Education (ECDE) support across Uran, Sololo, and Obbu Wards. The milestone event, held at Uran Godha Primary School, brought together county officials, educators, parents, local leaders, and hundreds of children.

Themed “Nurturing Today’s Learners, Shaping Tomorrow’s Leaders,” the event underscored Marsabit’s commitment to investing in its youngest generation. Mrs. Jattani outlined her vision for ECDE centres countywide: each equipped with two classrooms, separate toilets for boys, girls, and teachers, a 10,000-litre water tank with rainwater harvesting gutters, a kitchen, and a storage facility.

Highlighting recent progress, Mrs. Jattani noted that Uran, Sololo, and Obbu Wards now have 43 ECDE centres serving 2,917 children. She recalled that before the 2018/2019 financial year, young learners endured unsafe wooden benches and oversized chairs. In response, the county distributed 18,000 child-friendly plastic chairs and 4,500 tables to all 282 ECDE centres, creating safer and more comfortable learning environments.

Marsabit has also emerged as a pioneer in integrating technology into early learning. Through a partnership with EIDU, the county provides digital content for pupils and digital lesson planning tools for teachers. Mrs. Jattani celebrated Marsabit as one of the first counties in Kenya to implement the ECDE Teachers’ Scheme of Service, securing permanent and improved terms for more than 400 teachers. Training in Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) is reaching every ward, with full coverage expected by the end of the financial year.

The First Lady also emphasized nutrition and holistic child development. Inspired by the national Kitchen Garden Initiative led by First Lady Rachel Ruto, Marsabit County will establish school gardens at every ECDE centre. The first demonstration garden will be planted at Uran Godha, providing fresh vegetables and fruit for school meals and teaching children about sustainable agriculture. Mrs. Jattani urged every household to plant a kitchen garden, describing it as “a small but powerful act that ensures better nutrition and food security for our children.”

Dr. Arero Halkano, County Secretary and Head of County Public Service, highlighted the achievements of Governor Mohamud Ali’s administration in education. He cited the flagship scholarship program, launched in 2019, which has enabled 5,060 students from vulnerable backgrounds to access education. Of the more than 3,000 students who have completed high school under this program, 95 percent have advanced to university, many in competitive fields such as engineering and medicine. Dr. Halkano also noted the success of Marsabit’s free vocational training centres, which are equipping youth with practical skills for self-employment and entrepreneurship.

Ambaro Ali, County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Education, commended the First Lady’s advocacy for young learners, especially the girl child, saying her efforts have made a significant impact in nurturing Marsabit’s future. “ECDE is the foundation of all learning. If the foundation is good, we will build a very good house. That is why in Marsabit County, we believe investing in ECDE is investing in our future,” she said.

The CEC further highlighted the department’s robust teacher training programs and praised the preparedness of Marsabit’s teaching force. She challenged teachers to use their new skills to spark curiosity in pupils and to develop locally relevant learning materials. She also called for unity and collaboration among teachers across the county, urging them to share best practices for the benefit of every learner.

The ceremony was attended by chief officers, directors from the department of education, and other senior county officials.

20/10/2025

Marsabit County Mourns Raila Odinga

Monday, October 20, 2025

Saku Sub-County, Marsabit County

On a day meant to celebrate Kenya’s heroes, Marsabit County transformed its Mashujaa Day celebrations into a profound tribute to one of the nation’s greatest sons—the late Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga.

The ceremony, led by Governor Mohamud Ali, began with a deep sense of loss and reverence. As the first notes of Raila’s favorite Jamaican reggae tune echoed across Marsabit Stadium, his portrait was solemnly carried to the Governor. In a poignant gesture, Governor Ali embraced the portrait, holding it close before penning a heartfelt message in the official condolence book. Senior officials from county and national governments stood in silent respect, capturing the gravity of the moment.

Addressing the gathering, Governor Ali painted Raila as “a father to the marginalized,” a beacon who brought justice, hope, and self-determination to the people of Marsabit. “He was not born among us, but he lived for us,” the Governor declared. “Raila fought for our children to know opportunity, not neglect. He paid with his freedom, his family, and even his health—but he never gave up on Kenya. He never gave up on us.”

Ali recounted Raila’s years of imprisonment, the pain of separation from his loved ones, and the scars of torture endured under past regimes. Yet, he emphasized, Raila’s spirit remained unbroken. “He forgave again and again—not for himself, but for the peace of the nation. Even those who denied him victory found in him a forgiving elder who always put Kenya first.”

For Marsabit, Raila Odinga’s most enduring legacy was devolution. “He was the architect of the 2010 Constitution, the father of devolution. Because of him, Marsabit and other marginalized counties finally have a say in their own destinies. Our share of national resources is no longer an empty promise—it is a living reality,” said Ali.

The Governor shared personal reflections, recalling his election as Moyale MP under Raila’s party and his subsequent appointment as assistant minister. “Raila’s leadership never demanded loyalty to tribe or region, only to Kenya. He was ‘Baba’—father of the nation, father of the forgotten.”

Throughout the stadium, heads nodded in agreement as Ali described Raila as a leader whose legacy was not bitterness, but unity and hope. “He fought for the fisherman in Homa Bay, the farmer in Kericho and Nyeri, the herder in Marsabit, and the trader in Mombasa. He was a revolutionary who bled for every Kenyan.”

As the ceremony drew to a close, Governor Ali called on all Marsabit residents to honor Raila Odinga’s legacy by upholding peace, justice, equality, and unity. He also thanked President William Ruto for granting the late leader a dignified state funeral, saying, “This was a farewell worthy of a true hero.”

United in grief and gratitude, the people of Marsabit pledged to carry forward the ideals for which Raila Odinga lived and sacrificed. “Raila Odinga lived and fought for the people. His spirit will forever inspire the hills and valleys of Marsabit,” Governor Ali concluded, as the county joined the nation in mourning a true revolutionary and giver of hope.

The ceremony was graced by an array of distinguished guests, including County First Lady Alamitu Guyo, the Deputy Governor, County Commissioner, County Secretary, County Executive Committee Members, Chief Officers, County Public Service Board Members, Members of County Assembly,Directors, and the County Security Team. Senior dignitaries from both the national and county governments stood together with the people of Marsabit in this solemn tribute, united in honoring the memory and towering legacy of Raila Odinga.

20/10/2025

01/10/2025

Public Service Board Continues Familiarization Tour at County Headquarters

Wednesday , October 1, 2025

The Marsabit County Public Service Board, under the leadership of Chairman Boru Gufu, continued its familiarization tour today with an extensive visit to the county headquarters where they visited the County’s Human resource department

The Board members were warmly received by the Human Resource Director, Mr. Galgallo Doyo who took them through the intricate workings of the HR department, shedding light on essential procedures, the county’s organogram, staff establishment, and the wage bill. He emphasized the urgent need for the formation of a County Audit Committee, noting that such a body would play a crucial role in ensuring transparency and accountability within the public service.

He further offered a candid overview of the department’s successes and ongoing challenges highlighting critical areas requiring the immediate attention of the new Board, such as staffing shortages in essential departments, modernizing record-keeping systems, and investing in staff training and development. He urged the Board to address these gaps, emphasizing that strengthening these areas would significantly enhance the efficiency and morale of the county’s workforce.

A significant part of the visit also involved an in-depth discussion with the payroll manager on the management of the county’s payroll system. The conversation covered the need for accurate salary processing and robust financial oversight. The Board recognized that a reliable payroll system is not only crucial for staff motivation but also for upholding trust and accountability within the public service.

The tour also included a detailed stop at the county registry, where staff files and personnel records are securely kept. At the registry, the Board interacted with the technical teams responsible for managing and safeguarding these vital records. The technical staff demonstrated their processes for maintaining accurate employee files, handling recruitment documentation, and tracking staff performance and disciplinary matters.

Chairman Boru Gufu reiterated the Board’s commitment to supporting HR reforms, improving staff management systems, and fostering a culture of professionalism and integrity within Marsabit County's public service.

County Secretary Dr. Arero was also present during the tour, lending his support and sharing insights on the importance of collaborative leadership in driving the county’s public service agenda forward.

30/09/2025

Marsabit CPSB Conducts Familiarization Tour with Department Leaders

Tuesday, 30th September 2025

The newly inaugurated Marsabit County Public Service Board (CPSB) continued its onboarding today with a structured familiarization tour of key county departments. Led by Chairman Boru Gufu Badholicha, the delegation met with County Executive Committee members, chief officers, and department directors to deepen their understanding of public service operations and the staffing challenges facing frontline teams.

The County Secretary and Head of the County Public Service, Dr. Arero Halkano, accompanied the CPSB on the tour. He stressed that the exercise was more than ceremonial, saying it was about embedding the board into the fabric of county governance so they truly understand priorities and ground realities.

Across sessions, department heads outlined pressing human resource concerns. Gaps in staffing, particularly for specialized technical roles and the need to replace retired staff members were highlighted as immediate needs. There was a call for timely promotions and redesignations to reflect evolving responsibilities and to preserve continuity in service delivery.

Mental health and staff well-being also surfaced as pivotal areas requiring attention. Participants proposed establishing a dedicated unit or officer to oversee mental health support and rehabilitation services, signaling a broader shift toward holistic workforce management within the county.

Discussions further focused on professionalism, discipline, and integrity, with consensus on standardized induction and clear codes of conduct to ensure consistency across departments. The chair affirmed the board’s commitment to due process in addressing the issues raised, signaling a measured approach to governance that values accountability and transparency.

Both the chair and Dr. Halkano emphasized ongoing collaboration and the importance of structured engagement. The board requested sustained departmental support as it navigates the challenges identified, while Dr. Halkano pledged to coordinate efforts to foster a harmonious relationship between the CPSB and the departments. He cautioned that progress would rely on regular briefings, feedback loops, and adherence to established procedures.

18/09/2025

Governor Ali Demands Action on Sub-Counties, Pledges to Protect Marsabit’s Peace

Saku, Thursday, September 18, 2025

Governor Ali issued a passionate call for action during the Saku Vocational Training College graduation, turning the spotlight on the national government’s slow pace in operationalizing newly gazetted sub-counties across the County. Addressing graduates, local leaders, and residents, the governor painted a picture of a county ready to move forward but held back by bureaucracy and inaction.

With several sub-counties already gazetted by the Ministry of Interior, Governor Ali expressed his frustration that the promise of closer, more efficient government services remains unmet. He explained how his administration has stepped up by constructing modern administrative offices in anticipation of full operations. “We have done our part,” he said, his tone firm yet hopeful. “Our people deserve to receive services where they live. The infrastructure is ready, but the doors remain closed. What is the Ministry of Interior waiting for?”

The governor did not mince words, directly urging Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Morkumen to act swiftly. He made it clear that the county government’s commitment does not end at building offices.

The county boss added that his government is prepared to extend this investment to other gazetted sub-counties once those where infrastructure has already been built are operationalized. He emphasized that the responsibility now lies squarely with the national government. For him, operationalizing these sub-counties is more than an administrative issue, it is about dignity and access to services for his people. Every day of delay, he argued, is a day the people of Marsabit are denied their rights as citizens.

In a rallying cry for peace. He reminded the crowd of County’s difficult past, marked by cycles of violence and mistrust, a history he said his government has worked tirelessly to leave behind. “Since 2022, we have stood together as a county. We have shown the rest of Kenya what it means to nurture peace and coexistence,” he said, his voice filled with pride. The Governor credited the locals for being the true guardians of Marsabit’s stability, urging them to remain vigilant.

However, recent events have tested this fragile harmony. He condemned the recent ethnic conflict between the Gabra and Rendille communities witnessed at the border point of Laisamis and North Horr sub-counties, specifically around Maikona and Kargi towns, which claimed innocent lives. He called the incident a painful reminder of the dangers that still exist, and demanded swift justice from the Ministry of Interior, warning that Marsabit cannot afford a return to the chaos of the past. “We will not let anyone drag us back to those dark days. Not under my watch,” he declared.

The governor also addressed a chilling incident in Marsabit town, where a boda boda operator was murdered. He urged operators to be extra cautious, especially with clients at odd hours. “We cannot allow criminality to undo our progress. Every resident’s safety is my priority,” Ali said, calling on police to intensify investigations as a deterrent to would-be offenders.

18/09/2025

Marsabit Youth Urged to Embrace Skills Training at Saku Graduation

Saku Sub-County, Marsabit County

Thursday, September 18, 2025

Governor Mohamud Ali has called on young people and parents to embrace technical and vocational education, saying it holds the key to tackling unemployment and driving local development.

Addressing an audience of proud graduates, their families, and local leaders, Governor Ali acknowledged a reality faced not just in Marsabit, but across the nation: “Formal employment is not easily available and not enough for everyone.” With graduates outnumbering available job opportunities, the Governor emphasized the need for a shift in mindset, especially among the youth.

“The world has changed,” Governor Ali declared. “Now, more than ever, people are seeking self-employment. The number of those in formal employment is always outnumbered by those seeking jobs. It is time for our young people to prepare themselves not just to seek jobs, but to create them.”

Governor Ali lauded his government’s efforts in making polytechnics and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) centers free for all. However, he expressed concern over the low enrollment, urging parents to encourage their children—especially those who did not proceed to college—to seize these valuable opportunities.

“Our TVETs and polytechnics must be at the forefront of preparing our youth for job creation and self-employment,” he said. “The skills taught here—plumbing, wiring, tailoring, and masonry—are not just trades; they are pathways to dignity, independence, and prosperity.”

The Governor also challenged the lingering stigma around technical jobs, urging locals not to look down upon trades that form the backbone of any thriving economy. He noted that, due to a shortage of skilled labor locally, many jobs in plumbing, wiring, and masonry are taken up by workers from outside Marsabit County.

“These are jobs that should have been done by our own sons and daughters,” Governor Ali reminded the crowd. “Let’s empower our youth with the skills to build our county, our homes, and our future.”

The graduation ceremony was also attended by Deputy Governor Solomon Riwe, KCB Deputy Chief of Party Mr. Benard Barasa, Chief of Staff Abdo Alla, County Executive Committee Members, Chief Officers, Directors, and the area MCA Jack Elisha, among many other dignitaries.

18/09/2025

Marsabit County HR Advisory Committee Convenes to Advance Workforce Excellence

The County Human Resource Advisory Committee (CHRAC) convened today at the Governor’s Boardroom, chaired by County Secretary Dr. Arero Halkano and attended by the Director of Human Resource Management, Galgallo Doyo, along with Chief Officers. The meeting focused on key initiatives to enhance human resource management and further streamline service delivery across Marsabit County.

Among the main discussion points was the ongoing verification of casual staff, with an emphasis on transitioning eligible individuals to contractual engagement in close collaboration with the County Public Service Board (CPSB). This process is integral to integrating qualified personnel into the new payroll system, ensuring accountability and effective management of county human resources.

The committee also addressed the current headcount exercise, announcing the establishment of an appeal system to allow affected staff the opportunity for case review. This approach underscores the county’s commitment to fairness, transparency, and due process.

Additionally, the session reviewed opportunities for staff advancement through redesignation and promotions, reinforcing Marsabit County’s dedication to recognizing and motivating excellence within its workforce.

The meeting also featured updates on the county’s e-procurement system—reflecting ongoing efforts to harness technology for greater efficiency and integrity in county operations.

Dr. Halkano reiterated the county’s commitment to building a dynamic, professional, and accountable public service.

08/09/2025

Transition at the Department of Agriculture

Monday, September 8, 2025

Marsabit County government today demonstrated its commitment to good governance and service delivery as the Department of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries development witnessed a smooth handover of leadership. The ceremony, overseen by County Secretary Dr. Arero Halkano, brought together staff and senior officials who gathered to welcome the new County Executive Committee Member (CECM), Mr. Adan Kanano, and bid farewell to the outgoing CECM, Mr. Hussein Fundi. This handover follows last month’s strategic reshuffle by Governor Mohamud Ali, a move widely seen as optimizing county resources for the benefit of all residents.

The event was marked by a spirit of continuity and progress, with Mr. Hussein Fundi giving a comprehensive status report on the department’s achievements and ongoing projects. In his address, Mr. Fundi outlined the department’s robust support for local farmers through the provision of subsidized tractors, a measure that has not only eased the burden of land preparation but also increased agricultural productivity. He highlighted the ongoing restocking programs, which are tailored to the unique needs of each ward and designed to introduce resilient livestock breeds, ensuring that the county’s livestock sector remains strong even in the face of challenges.

Mr. Fundi also detailed the department’s significant infrastructure projects, including the launch of various irrigation schemes, the construction of dams, the sinking of boreholes, and the implementation of mass livestock vaccination programs. These efforts, he noted, are already bearing fruit by securing water sources, improving crop yields, and safeguarding the health of County’s livestock. Importantly, Mr. Fundi openly addressed staffing challenges, noting the retirement of several technical staff and the urgent need for new recruitment to maintain the department’s high standards of service.

As he passed the baton, Mr. Fundi was full of praise for the dedication and professionalism of the department’s staff, expressing confidence that his successor would build on the strong foundation laid during his tenure. His leadership has left an indelible mark, and his transition to the Department of Finance and Economic Planning is a clear reflection of Governor Ali’s trust in his abilities and the county’s commitment to utilizing its best talent where it is needed most.

Taking up his new role, Mr. Adan Kanano expressed deep gratitude to Governor Mohamud Ali for the trust placed in him and to Mr. Fundi for his outstanding stewardship of the department. Drawing on his extensive experience, including four years in the Department of Water and three years in Finance, Mr. Kanano pledged to maintain an open-door policy, encouraging teamwork and innovation among staff. He emphasized that their collective mission is to serve the people of Marsabit County, underlining the critical importance of agriculture, livestock, and fisheries as the backbone of the county’s economy and the source of livelihoods for countless families.

Mr. Kanano assured staff and residents of his unwavering commitment to tackling key issues such as disease control, water access for livestock and agriculture , and the continued restocking of animals in line with community priorities. He spoke passionately about the untapped potential of agriculture and fisheries in Marsabit, urging senior staff and chief officers to work with a sense of purpose and to create a legacy of achievement for themselves and the wider community.

05/09/2025

Kenya Medical Training College, Marsabit Campus, one of the key legacy projects started and completed by Governor Mohamud M. Ali - Abshiro