Sh400 million informal settlements’ facelift project launched in Lamu

At least Sh400 million will be spent in upgrading slums and other shantytowns in Lamu.

The Lamu County Government on Tuesday launched the Kenya Informal Settlement Improvement Project (KISIP), a World Bank-funded initiative in Mokowe Town.

The project aims to undertake a facelift of six(6) renowned unplanned and unauthorised residential areas that lack proper infrastructure and basic services such as water, sanitation, and electricity.

The six selected informal settlements are Witu, Mokowe, Wiyoni, Matondoni, Faza, and Kiunga on the Kenya-Somalia border.

The project involves footpath cabro paving, improvement of water supply, installation of high masts, lighting towers and improvement of drainage systems.

Speaking during the launching event, Governor Issa Timamy expressed confidence that once the program is fully implemented, it will uplift the status of old towns like Mokowe which has for decades struggled due to poor infrastructure and the amenities required of an urban centre.

Mr Timamy further expressed happiness that the project will increase trading hours which will significantly improve the economic status of Mokowe and Lamu residents at large.

“We’re happy as a county government to partner with the World Bank in undertaking this crucial project aimed at boosting the status of our informal settlements. The cabro roads in the selected informal settlements will enhance business activities and address complaints raised in the concerned areas. Poor living standards impede people’s efforts in wealth creation,” said Mr Timamy.

Speaking at the same event, Lamu Port South Sudan Ethiopia Transport (Lapsset) Corridor Regional Manager-Coast, Salim Bunu termed the implementation of the KISIP project as timely.

Mr Bunu said Mokowe Informal Settlements need urgent upgrading bearing in mind that the area borders the Lamu Port in Kililana.

He said apart from being a county headquarters, Mokowe town is also viewed as the Lamu Port headquarters town owing to its proximity to the facility.

“I am happy that the KISIP project is also benefiting Mokowe. The town is crucial since it nears the Lamu Port and needs faster upgrades. I believe with the operationalized Lamu Port in place, the town will have a 24-hour economy in coming years. This will be a game changer to the locals in this place,” said Mr Bunu.

Also present during the launching of the KISIP Project at Mokowe town were Lapsset Chief Executive Officer Stephen Ikua, Lamu County Finance Executive Mohamed Mbwana, Fisheries Executive Faiz Fankupi, Lamu County Secretary Ali Abbas, the Lamu County Chief of Staff Abdulnasir Issa, Lands Chief Officer Ahmed Ali, and Members of the Lamu County Assembly (MCAs).