Busia Governor Sospeter Ojaamong has urged the National Government to recognize independence heroes who contributed to the country’s liberation.
In a speech read on his behalf by Deputy Governor Moses Mulomi during the 56th Madaraka Day celebrations at Busia County Stadium, the Governor said leaders like James Osogo and the late Oduya Oprong have lived in abject poverty despite being among the first few Members of Parliament in the first parliament in 1963.
“Hon Oprong was a great fighter who defied death and for many years he lived with a bullet lodged in his head until last week when the cruel hand of death robbed us of a man who ruthlessly fought a course until he emerged victorious,” he said.
Ojaamong added that such leaders deserve national recognition for their role in delivering Kenya from the colonial yoke.
He reminded county residents of his desire to leave a legacy at the end of his term in 2022.
“To achieve this goal, we must remain united, work hard, and focus our energies on developing our county instead of engaging in early campaigns”. He said.
He said as patriotic citizens, it is the duty of leaders to cultivate the spirit of patriotism and emulate the spirit of Kenya’s founding fathers whose sacrifice to achieve autonomy of a Nation came at a cost.
The governor said his government has carried out ambitious infrastructural development and maintenance program.
“Through the Kenya Urban Support Programme (KUSP) projects, we have embarked on improving Busia Municipality; we have started by upgrading of the 0.6 kilometers Amukura House-Water-Forest – Jua Kali-YMCA junction road to bitumen standards.
The road will have storm water drainage and walk ways on both sides; the contractor will also construct storm water drainage and cabro-blocks.
Another KUSP project which has started entails installation of five (30m) high mast security lights with 300 meter radius in designated places.
The contractor will also install fixed waste collection bins and non-motorized road signs.
The third project will involve the supply and delivery of two tractors with skip bin trailers and attachments.
These projects will cost approximately shs 100million.
Busia Municipality was gazetted and formally granted a charter on 1st January 2018.
Subsequently, the Municipality received Sh101m from the World Bank through KUSP.
“The second disbursement will be this month. We are on the right track to restore the image of our border town; instead of constant criticisms, resident should cooperate with my administration to help keep the town clean,” he said.