Isiolo: The Director General of the Kenya School of Government (KSG), Professor Nura Mohamed, has called for a sustained national dialogue at the grassroots, emphasizing the need for community engagement on issues that will shape Kenya beyond 2030.
According to Kenya News Agency, Professor Mohamed made these remarks during a grassroots engagement forum attended by National Government Administration Officers (NGAOs) from the 10 Wards of Isiolo County. He stressed that national development should not be confined to professionals and leaders at the national level; instead, it must involve communities at the ward level. The dialogue should particularly focus on the youth agenda, drug and substance abuse, security, health, development, and citizens’ contributions to the country’s future.
Professor Mohamed urged residents, especially young people, to leverage government programs and civic opportunities by registering for national identification cards, birth certificates, and as voters ahead of the upcoming General Election. He also encouraged residents to register for the Social Health Authority (SHA), highlighting that such registration would allow families to access health services and other benefits under the national health program.
Addressing housing concerns, Professor Mohamed stated that the affordable housing program could offer decent shelter while creating employment and economic opportunities for Kenyans. He urged professionals involved in grassroots engagements to utilize their expertise to help communities identify challenges and devise practical solutions.
He warned against drug and substance abuse, noting that such vices endanger the future of young people and undermine development efforts. He called for joint efforts by families, communities, security agencies, and the government to tackle the issue. Professor Mohamed emphasized that the national dialogue should transcend political discussions, focusing on the everyday needs and aspirations of Kenyans.
Isiolo County Commissioner Mwachaunga Chaunga highlighted the critical role of the 10 Ward NGAO officers in coordinating government programs and development priorities at the grassroots level. He assured that his administration would continue collaborating with communities on development, security, and other issues affecting them.
Commissioner Chaunga stated that ward-level work plans would help translate national government priorities into tangible projects and services for residents. He added that stronger coordination at the ward level would enable the government to identify emerging challenges early and ensure development interventions are responsive to the actual needs of local communities.
The meeting aimed to enhance grassroots participation in national development and build a common agenda for Kenya beyond 2030. It brought together professionals and government officials as part of these efforts. Commissioner Chaunga assured that security agencies were prepared to address insecurity challenges, and the NGAO team would facilitate the registration of ID cards across Isiolo.
According to Josephine Eregai, a Commissioner at the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), the meeting also aimed to address various security issues affecting residents across the county, including cattle rustling, banditry, and drug abuse. Ms. Eregai urged politicians and their supporters to maintain proper conduct before, during, and after the forthcoming elections.
