President Kenyatta assures Budalang’i residents of a bridge at Sigiri

President Uhuru Kenyatta has assured Budalang’i residents that the government will expedite the construction of the proposed Sigiri bridge to curb the deaths resulting from crossing River Nzoia.

Speaking on Sunday at Port Victoria in Busia County, where he consoled the families of those who lost their lives in the Sigiri boat tragedy last week, President Kenyatta directed the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure to move with speed to ensure work on the bridge begins.

“The bridge must be constructed as a matter of priority. We cannot continue to lose the lives of our people, especially those of young children in river tragedies in this day and age,” President Kenyatta said.

The President announced that the government will give Sh100,000 for every person who died in the boat tragedy. He said 500 bags of maize, 200 bags of beans, 200 bags of rice and other foodstuffs will be distributed to those affected by the boat tragedy.

President Kenyatta also said Kenya Maritime Authority officials will next week be sent to work with the county government to provide life jackets and other protective gear for boat users crossing River Nzoia.

TOP PRIORITY

On Sunday, Budalang’i Member of Parliament Ababu Namwamba said the construction of Sigiri Bridge is a top priority for his constituency and expressed confidence that President Kenyatta will ensure it is built.

He praised the President’s commitment to serve all Kenyans irrespective of party affiliation, saying he has proved to be a leader focused on developing the country.

“I know the people of Budalang’i would want me to work with the President and other leaders to improve their welfare and that is what I intend to do,” Mr. Namwamba said.