Siaya Governor James Orengo today said that he will work closely with the national government to enable the region realize its goals.
In a speech read on his behalf by the county secretary, Philip Owade during this year’s Jamhuri day celebrations held at the Siaya Kenya Medical Training Centre (KMTC) grounds, Orengo said that both the devolved units and the national government cannot work in isolation.
“I will continue working closely with the national government because the two levels of government cannot afford to work in isolation,” said the governor.
He said that devolution was created as part of the overall framework to involve Kenyans in matters that concern them after the realization of sectarian development right from independence.
Orengo said that the challenges brought about by the new system of government will not hinder his administration from initiating development programs that will help alleviate poverty amongst Siaya residents.
The governor said that the fruits of devolution can only be realized when participatory planning and prudent management of resources is undertaken by the citizens.
Addressing the occasion after reading the presidential speech, Siaya County Commissioner Mr. Jim Njoka called for close working relationship between the two levels of government and members of the public.
Njoka said that the public was a crucial link to improved security and their cooperation with security officers will help make the county peaceful.
“You may not hold a gun but the information that you could be having is crucial and will enable us nip crime in the bud,” said the county commissioner.
Njoka assured the residents that security will be improved during the festive season but called on the locals not to over indulge in the name of celebrations.
He said that Disco Matanga remained banned in the county and reminded parents not to abdicate their responsibility of taking care of their children during the festivities.
By Philip Onyango
