By Remmy Butia
Speaking on the state of infrastructure in Suba South and Suba North, the legislator said most roads in the two constituencies remain in poor condition and warned against a narrative that labels them merely as “feeder roads” to justify neglect. “Let us stop cheating people by saying those are feeder roads and that the main roads were barricaded,” she said.
Hon. Odhiambo recalled earlier national projects in the area, noting that under former President Mwai Kibaki and Prime Minister Raila Odinga, the Homa Bay–Mbita road was tarmacked, while President Uhuru Kenyatta constructed the Mbita Bridge. She said the current administration has also invested in local roads: President William Ruto completed the Rusinga Ring Road and officially opened the Mfangano Ring Road, where tarmacking has now commenced. “He has earmarked a few others to be done, including the Sindo–Mbito Road,” she added.
The MP also highlighted recent county-level activity, saying Cabinet Secretary Mramba Mbadi launched two road projects in her constituency, one of which is the route currently in use. Despite these developments, Hon. Odhiambo insisted that Suba communities remain marginalised. “We have been marginalised for years. Sugar-coating it by calling the bad roads feeder roads will stop the government from prioritising these roads,” she said.
Expressing frustration at how the region has been portrayed, the legislator said international commentary that likened their condition to conflict zones was insulting and must stop. “The world has made enough mockery of us today, calling us Afghanistan and all. It is time this ended,” she said, adding a reminder: “Subas are Kenyans too.”
Hon. Odhiambo urged accelerated development across Suba South and Suba North to end long-standing disparities and ensure residents benefit from national infrastructure programmes.
