Category County News

‎The County Government of Lamu on Tuesday held a stakeholder engagement meeting with traders and market committee members in Mpeketoni to create awareness on the proposed modern open-air market set to be constructed in the town.

‎During the meeting, traders were taken through the project design, which will see the current mabati structures and vibandas replaced with a modern two-storey market facility. The upgrade is expected to improve accessibility within the market, which has been a major challenge under the current congested layout.

‎Speaking during the engagement, County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Agriculture Mr. James Gichu said the project will stimulate further development in Mpeketoni and improve the business environment for traders.

‎“This project will attract more developments and open up Mpeketoni town economically,” he noted.

‎Trade Chief Officer Ms. Joyce urged the market committee and traders to support the project, noting that the modern market will significantly improve infrastructure within the town, including proper drainage and better access routes.

‎The proposed two-storey market will sit on a 60 by 52 feet area and is expected to accommodate approximately 700 stalls. The facility will also include designated trading spaces, restaurants, and a social hall to support both business and community activities.

‎Officials noted that the current market setup poses safety concerns due to poor accessibility, especially during emergencies or disasters. Market committee members welcomed the project and requested clear guidance on the relocation of traders during the construction period. County officials assured them that the relocation process will be handled effectively to ensure minimal disruption to their businesses.

‎The meeting was attended by market committee members led by Chairman Mr. David Gikaru, Ward Administrator Mr. Jamal Fumo, representatives from the offices Bahari Ward MCA.

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‎Fr more information contact communication office at communication@lamu.go.ke

The County Government of Lamu has taken a step toward strengthening urban governance and financial sustainability following a technical review of the Model County Financing of Cities and Urban Areas Bill.

The review meeting, convened through the Office of the County Secretary in collaboration with the Municipality of Lamu, was held at the Lamu Vocational Training Hall.

The session brought together senior county officials, finance experts, legal officers, and municipal administrators to deliberate on the proposed legislative framework that will guide the financing and financial management of municipalities and urban areas.

The proposed Bill aims to strengthen financial management and accountability within municipalities, establish clear mechanisms for revenue delegation and retention, and provide a structured formula for allocating funds to urban areas.

It also seeks to promote efficient service delivery and support sustainable urban development.

The meeting was held under the Kenya Urban Support Programme (KUSP), a national initiative that supports counties in strengthening urban institutions, improving infrastructure, and enhancing service delivery in municipalities and urban areas.

Following the technical review, the draft document will undergo public participation where stakeholders and members of the public will be invited to provide views and recommendations.

The final document will then be submitted to the County Executive Committee and later to the County Assembly for consideration.

Among those who attended the meeting were County Executive Committee Member for Lands Tashrifa Bakari, Lamu Municipality Manager Abdulsewamad Ali, Chief Officer for Lands Ahmed Ali (Loo), Chief Officer for Finance Salma Omar, and Chief Officer for Budget Bwanakheri Avokame, County Attorney Kulthum Harith among other county officials.

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For more information, contact the Communications Office at communication@lamu.go.ke

Tchundwa Primary School pupils have received classroom furniture in a donation aimed at improving the learning environment and encouraging unity among neighboring communities.

During the distribution exercise, Lamu County Deputy Governor Dr. Mbarak Bahjaj urged residents from surrounding villages to maintain peace and resolve their differences through dialogue for the benefit of their children.

He noted that schools should be safe spaces where children from different villages can interact, learn and grow together without divisions.

“Our schools must remain symbols of unity. When communities embrace peace and coexistence, we create a better environment for our children to learn and prosper,” Dr. Bahjaj said.

The furniture donation was made possible through the support of the Regional Director of the Human Development Fund, Mr. Abdulrahman.

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For more information contact the Communication Office at communication@lamu.go.ke

Students at Patte Girls Secondary School have received classroom furniture in an initiative aimed at improving learning facilities and strengthening peaceful relations among neighboring communities.

While overseeing the distribution exercise, Lamu County Deputy Governor Dr. Mbarak Bahjaj called on residents from surrounding villages to embrace peace and work together for the development of the region.

He emphasized that education remains a powerful tool for bringing communities together and shaping a future grounded in cooperation and mutual respect.

The donation was made possible through the support of the Regional Director of the Human Development Fund, Mr. Abdulrahman.

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For more information contact the Communication Office at communication@lamu.go.ke

Students at Kizingitini Secondary School have benefited from a donation of classroom furniture in an initiative aimed at improving the learning environment while also promoting peace among communities in the area.

The distribution exercise was led by Lamu County Deputy Governor Dr. Mbarak Bahjaj, who used the opportunity to call on residents of neighboring villages to embrace peaceful coexistence and dialogue.

Dr. Bahjaj emphasized that development initiatives such as education should serve as a bridge to unite communities and create a better future for the younger generation.

“Our children must grow up in an environment defined by peace, cooperation and mutual respect. When communities coexist harmoniously, development becomes possible and education thrives,” said Dr. Bahjaj.

The furniture was donated through the support of the Regional Director of the Human Development Fund, Mr. Abdulrahman, whose organization continues to support education and community development initiatives in the region.

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For more information contact the Communication Office.

Learners at Lumshi Primary School in Lamu West Sub-County have received new classroom furniture in an initiative aimed at improving the learning environment and enhancing access to quality education.

The exercise was led by Lamu Deputy Governor, His Excellency Dr. Mbarak Bahjaj, who reiterated the county leadership’s commitment to supporting education and ensuring that pupils study in a conducive environment.

The furniture was donated through the support of the Regional Director of the Human Development Fund, Mr. Abdulrahman, whose contribution has significantly boosted efforts to improve infrastructure in local schools.

Speaking during the distribution, Dr. Bahjaj emphasized that education remains the greatest equaliser in society, noting that every child deserves access to quality learning facilities regardless of their background.

The Deputy Governor further underscored the county government’s commitment to promoting fairness and inclusive opportunities in the education sector.

Dr. Bahjaj was accompanied by Hon. Julius Ndegwa, Lamu West Sub-County Chief Administrator Mr. Mwangi, Hongwe Ward Administrator Mr. Dominic, and other stakeholders who attended the event to support the initiative.

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For more information contact the Communication Office at communication@lamu.go.ke

The County Government of Lamu has taken a significant step towards improving living conditions in informal settlements following the presentation of the Situational Analysis and Interim Strategy Report for the Lamu County Slum Upgrading and Prevention Strategy under the Kenya Informal Settlements Improvement Project (KISIP II).

The report highlights the current conditions in informal settlements across the county, focusing on key challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, limited access to clean water and sanitation, insecure land tenure, and environmental vulnerabilities affecting many communities.

According to the findings, the rapid growth of informal settlements has largely been driven by population increase and unplanned urban development in key areas including Mokowe, Witu, Faza, Matondoni, Kiunga, and Siyu.

The situational analysis also notes that many settlements face poor road access, lack of drainage systems, and insufficient waste management services, factors that pose health and environmental risks to residents.

The interim strategy proposes targeted interventions including upgrading of access roads, expansion of water and sanitation infrastructure, strengthening land tenure systems, and integrating environmental sustainability and climate resilience in settlement planning.

Once finalized, the strategy will guide coordinated efforts between the County Government of Lamu, the national government, development partners, and local communities to improve living standards and promote safe, dignified, and sustainable settlements across the county.

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For more information, contact the Communications Office at communication@lamu.go.ke

I was deeply honored to host the COIN-10 — Committee on the Implementation of the NADCO Report — in my office earlier today.

The delegation was led by Hon. Dr. Agnes Zani and Mr. Javas Bigambo. I was joined by Hon. MCAs Barisa Deko, Ahmed Medo, Asha Mohamed, Amina, and Mercy Riziki.

We held extensive discussions on several pressing issues affecting Lamu County, key among them being the low shareable revenue allocation, which continues to severely disadvantage Lamu and hinder effective service delivery.

We also emphasized critical infrastructural interventions necessary to curb insecurity and unlock economic potential, including the urgent tarmacking of the Hindi–Kiunga and Mangai–Kiunga roads, as well as fast-tracking the Mangai Dam project to address the perennial water challenges in the Boni enclave.

Further, we discussed unemployment and the need to expand opportunities for the people of Lamu, particularly around the transformative LAPSSET Corridor Project.

We remain committed to sustained engagement to ensure Lamu receives its fair share of national resources and development.

Dr. Mbarak M. Bahjaj

Deputy Governor #005

Lamu County

Lamu County has been ranked 8th nationally in the latest Overall County Ranking on Automation, E-Government and Employment Creation, achieving an impressive final score of 79.9 percent.

The ranking assessed counties on citizen experience (front-end services), automation of revenue systems (back-end), smart government initiatives, and employment creation. Lamu recorded a strong 32.3 in Citizen Experience, 20.6 in system automation, a full 10.0 in Smart Government initiatives, and 17.0 out of 35 in employment creation.

This milestone has been attributed to the transformative leadership of Governor Issa Timamy EGH, OGW, whose administration has prioritized digitization of county services, automation of revenue collection, and innovation-driven governance. Under his leadership, Lamu has strengthened service delivery systems, improved transparency, and enhanced efficiency across departments.

Governor Timamy has consistently championed the integration of technology in public administration as a catalyst for economic growth and job creation. His focus on modernizing county operations and empowering youth and local entrepreneurs continues to position Lamu as a progressive and competitive county.

The ranking reaffirms Lamu’s steady rise as a model of smart governance and sustainable development.

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For more information contact communication@lamu.go.ke

The Department of Infrastructure and Public Works has officially commenced construction of the Myabogi Footbridge, marking a significant milestone in efforts to improve accessibility and safety within the community.

For many years, residents have faced difficulties crossing the seasonal waterway, particularly during the rainy season when flooding makes movement dangerous and at times impossible.

The new footbridge is expected to provide a safe, reliable, and permanent crossing point, easing daily movement for residents of all ages.

Beyond improving physical connectivity, the project stands out for its strong focus on youth empowerment.

Local young people have been directly engaged in the construction process, creating employment opportunities while equipping them with valuable technical and practical skills.

This inclusive approach ensures that development not only delivers infrastructure but also strengthens community capacity and ownership.

Once completed, the Myabogi Footbridge will enhance access to schools, health facilities, and markets, while also supporting local economic activities.

County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Land, Infrastructure and Urban planning, Tashrifa Bakari, said the project is designedOfficials from the Department reaffirmed their commitment to implementing sustainable, people centered projects that directly improve livelihoods.

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For more information, contact the Communications Office at communication@lamu.go.ke