President William Ruto has announced progress in restoring stability in Lamu County, saying the government has managed to contain insecurity threats and is now shifting focus toward infrastructure expansion and economic development projects.

Speaking during his visit to the county on Friday, May 22, 2026, Ruto said improved security conditions were creating room for long-term investments aimed at opening up the region and improving livelihoods.

“We have managed to contain the threat of insecurity and bring lasting stability in Lamu County. We are therefore on course to upgrade infrastructure, unlock the county’s vast economic potential and expand opportunities for residents,” the president said.

During the visit, Ruto launched the tarmacking of the Showground-Lamu-Red Cross Centre-Safirisi-Ndeu road and access roads in Hindi. He also flagged off the Hindi Last Mile Connectivity Project, which seeks to improve electricity access in rural areas.

The president further inspected ongoing construction works at the Hindi Modern Market in Lamu West Constituency, which is expected to provide traders with improved working spaces and expand business opportunities within the county.

Infrastructure projects

Ruto said the government intends to use infrastructure projects to accelerate economic growth and improve access to services in the coastal county.

“We are transforming Lamu County through development programmes and projects that uplift lives and expand opportunity,” he said.

The projects form part of broader government plans to support trade, transport and investment in the region, especially around the Lamu Port corridor and surrounding transport networks.

Officials say improved roads, electricity access and market facilities are expected to stimulate local businesses, improve movement of goods and services and strengthen connectivity between communities.

The development push comes as Lamu continues to position itself as a strategic economic hub through ongoing port expansion and supporting infrastructure linked to regional trade and logistics.

Security coordination challenges

Despite the government’s optimism on security gains, recent discussions among stakeholders have pointed to continuing challenges in coordination and information-sharing within security structures.

A multi-stakeholder workshop convened by the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) in Lamu highlighted concerns over weak coordination between agencies, delayed responses to early warning signs and strained relations between some communities and security officers.

Participants at the forum included county officials, national government representatives, civil society organisations and community leaders.

NCTC Chief Liaison Officer Colonel Emanuel Chirchir said ongoing development projects could help reduce vulnerability to extremism and insecurity in the region.

“Lamu is growing economically, and with the development of port infrastructure, the vulnerability will be reduced,” Chirchir said.

Lamu Chief Officer Khadija Fumo called for stronger integration between county and national security systems, while peacebuilding stakeholders urged improved communication channels and faster response mechanisms.

Community leaders also emphasised the importance of building trust between residents and security agencies, noting that local communities remain central in identifying and reporting security threats.

The government says sustained security operations alongside infrastructure development will remain key pillars in efforts to stabilize the county and support long-term economic growth.