President William Ruto has unveiled a major infrastructure and security plan for Meru County, announcing the construction of 252 kilometres of roads, a Sh7 billion bridge project and the deployment of 200 additional police officers, saying the investments are aimed at improving transport, strengthening security and creating more economic opportunities for residents.
The President made the announcement on Saturday while attending the burial of Mzee Patrick M'Anaiba Baikilanya, the father of Igembe North MP Julius Taitumu, at Kaelo in Meru County.
Ruto said the road projects, including the construction of the Sh7 billion Nithi Bridge, are part of the government's commitment to opening up farming areas, easing the movement of people and goods, cutting transport costs and improving access to markets.
Alongside the infrastructure projects, the President announced the deployment of 200 more police officers to help tackle cattle rustling, saying the government had resolved to end livestock theft that has troubled parts of the county for many years.
"Wakati tulipata matatizo hapa, tuko na shida kidogo hapa ya wakora na wezi wa mifugo, nilituma askari wengine mia mbili... Msikuwe na wasiwasi, mambo ya ukora na wizi wa mifugo yenu tutakomesha. I want to assure you," the President said.
Ruto said he had held consultations with local leaders on the security situation and agreed on measures that would help restore peace in the affected areas.
"I have held discussions with your leaders, and we have agreed. I have put in place necessary measures because it is not right that after 60 years we are still having this habit of cattle theft," he said.
The President said improved security would support the ongoing infrastructure investments by creating a safer environment for economic growth and development across the county.
During the burial, Ruto also paid tribute to Mzee Patrick M'Anaiba Baikilanya, describing him as a hardworking and inspirational leader whose contribution to society would be remembered for generations.
"We celebrate the long and remarkable life of Mzee Patrick M'Anaiba Baikilanya. Mzee was hardworking, inspiring and an illustrious role model to many, and it is no wonder his footprints are evident all over," Ruto said.
He also conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family, assuring them that the government stood with them during the period of mourning.
"The family, relatives and friends are in our thoughts and prayers at this time of mourning," he said.
The burial brought together political leaders from Meru and neighbouring counties, who honoured the late Baikilanya for his contribution to community development and the impact he had on many lives across the region.