United Opposition heads to Taveta and Voi as Day 2 of Coast tour kicks off

The United Opposition has commenced its second day of a people's tour across Taveta and Voi on the coastal region of Kenya. The political team led by Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa is set to meet with residents in Eldoro, Taveta town, and Voi town. Wamalwa emphasized the tour's focus on listening to the residents and engaging in discussions on matters deemed vital to the County and the nation.

The opposition's visit follows the team's earlier tour in Makueni, Kajiado, and Taita Taveta regions, where residents expressed their support for the opposition's WANTAM campaign. Reflecting on the initial day of the tour, Wamalwa commended the warm reception from residents in Emali, Kimana, and Njukini. The residents utilized the meetings to voice concerns regarding stalled development projects, revenue-sharing issues, and infrastructure.

Among the key projects Wamalwa highlighted was the Thwake Mega Dam, which had stalled despite its significance to the people of Ukambani. He blamed the delay on insufficient funding, stating that it continues to prevent residents from accessing water. The Thwake Mega Dam, situated between Makueni and Kitui counties, is intended to provide water for domestic use, irrigation, and other purposes while facilitating regional development.

Wamalwa also addressed the ongoing debate surrounding the management and revenue generated from Amboseli National Park. He accused the government of failing to fulfill its promise to transfer park management to the people of Kajiado, resulting in the loss of billions of shillings in potential revenue for the region. The issue of Amboseli's revenue has been a persistent topic of political and economic discussions in Kajiado, with local leaders advocating for more benefits for the communities residing around the park.

Furthermore, Wamalwa pointed out the incomplete tarmacking of the road linking Kajiado and Taita Taveta counties as a critical infrastructure concern. He emphasized that the road's completion is essential for enhancing connectivity between the two counties and improving the movement of people and goods. The opposition is leveraging these infrastructure and development issues to argue for greater accountability from the national government.