Rongo: The residents of Nyarach in Rongo Constituency of Migori County have opposed a proposal for construction of affordable houses at Nyarach Primary School land. The residents expressed fears that the planned project could jeopardize the expansion of the school in the future.
According to Kenya News Agency, speakers during a public hearing of the proposals stated they would only support plans that align with the school’s primary purpose, suggesting projects like colleges and health facilities instead. The community had initially set aside the land for educational purposes, and they insist on maintaining this intention. During a Public Participation exercise, area Member of Parliament Paul Abuor faced strong opposition from residents who dismissed his appeals to allow the project to proceed, arguing that it would benefit the remote area economically.
Abuor pressed that the affordable housing initiative could spur economic growth in the region. However, residents like Peter Asere countered, advocating for educational and health infrastructure over housing. They suggested that the government should finish existing projects in nearby Siala before embarking on new ventures.
The residents also expressed dissatisfaction with the fulfillment of promises made by President William Ruto during previous visits. They urged the MP to redirect funds meant for affordable housing to build laboratories and teachers’ quarters to enhance educational quality.
Faced with firm opposition, MP Abuor agreed to relay the residents’ demands to higher authorities, acknowledging their stance. ‘I am your servant and you are my employer. I have to listen to you, and I will go by your resolutions,’ he stated. The proposed affordable housing scheme at the school was to cost almost Sh 10 billion.
Source: Kenya News Agency
