Insecurity top agenda for new Lamu Governor Twaha

Mr Fahim Yassin Twaha of Jubilee Party was Friday sworn in as Governor of Lamu County.

Mr Twaha, who floored Issa Timamy of the Amani National Congress in the General Election took oath of office at a the Mkunguni Square in Lamu town on Friday in a colourful ceremony presided by Justice Jackline Kamau.

Speaking shortly after being sworn in, Mr Twaha pledged to prioritise security and out is as one of the top agendas in his first 100 days in office.

Mr Twaha acknowledged that insecurity, caused by constant Al-Shabaab raids in various parts of the county had affected tourism and other development activities.

TOURISM

He said security is key for both county and national development.

He promised to work closely with the national government to ensure peace and calm are restored in Lamu for stable growth of tourism, fishing, agriculture and other key economic sectors in the region.

Mr Twaha also said he will restore unity among communities living in the county saying Lamu is a cosmopolitan region and that people need to celebrate their cultural diversities.

“I am happy that I am standing here today as your governor. I am aware that some did not vote for me but I promise to serve you all. We extend a hand of friendship to losers and I invite them to work with us in moving this county forward,” said Mr Twaha.

The governor said he would also ensure all residents get title deeds.

WATER SUPPLY

He also pledged to improve health care and water supply.

“Lamu residents need better healthcare. Our hospitals have no drugs. Our towns are dirty and there is no clean water. We want to improve all those services,” he said.

He pledged to support projects that will be beneficial to the county and will ensure the youth get jobs in all mega projects being established in Lamu, including the new Lamu Port South Sudan Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) corridor project in Lamu West.

On his side, Lamu Deputy Governor Mr Abdulhakim Aboud called on all poll losers in the county to join them in serving the people of Lamu.

“We will not discriminate anyone. We are ready to work with everyone without considering which party you belong to or coalition you are aligned to” said Mr Abdulhakim.