Ruto vows to end decades of marginalisation in northern Kenya
By Cy Muganda, February 11, 2026President William Ruto has pledged to reverse what he described as decades of marginalisation in northern Kenya, outlining major infrastructure investments as part of his administration’s broader plan to spur economic transformation in the region.
In a statement posted on his X account on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, following an address to residents and traders in Garissa town, Ruto reiterated his administration’s focus on infrastructure, economic inclusion and equitable development across all regions.
“We are building one of the longest and most comprehensive roads in Kenya – 750km Isiolo-Mandera road at a cost of Ksh100 billion – to demonstrate our commitment to developing every part of our country,” Ruto stated.
Correcting historical injustices
The President framed the infrastructure investment as part of a broader effort to correct historical patterns of marginalisation and discrimination that have affected northern Kenya since colonial times.
“Under our leadership, we will correct the past of marginalisation and discrimination, and rewrite a future of transformation that leaves no Kenyan, no region and no community behind,” he said.
Northern Kenya row
Ruto’s remarks come amid criticism from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who has called on the President to account for the slow pace of development in northern Kenya despite promises made during the campaign period.
Speaking at a press conference at the DCP headquarters in Nairobi on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, Gachagua expressed concern over the poor state of development in the region.
“William Ruto should explain to the people of northern Kenya why he keeps on visiting the region with no tangible development,” Gachagua said.
He also criticised the government for leaving the region behind in relief food aid, noting that residents are currently suffering from drought and lack of access to food and water.
Gachagua urged the President to declare the drought a national disaster and personally bring relief supplies during his visit.
“We wanted to tell William Ruto, as he goes to the north, that the problem of the northern people is the problem of accountability — theft of public resources by the leaders he dines and travels with. He is going to be with those leaders in military choppers, blowing dust on hungry people with no food and water. I would like to ask him to carry food and water to the people of northern Kenya,” Gachagua added.