This archive report was first published on 8 August 2020.
Residents of Nakuru and Narok counties have been protesting over the deplorable state of roads, particularly those connecting Olposimoru and Olkurto trading centres.
According to residents, the poor road network has hindered security and access to essential services, including hospitals. In fact, last week, an expectant mother lost her life as she was being rushed to hospital due to the impassable road conditions.
Charles Kiio, a resident, explained that the poor road network has made it difficult for security agents to track stolen animals. He noted that the 10-kilometre stretch between Olokurto and Olposimoru has been impassable since last year.
“The road network slows them down when they respond to cases of stolen animals,” Kiio said.
Recently, 50 heads of cattle were stolen in the area, and to date, only half of them have been recovered. One person died in retaliatory attacks while four others were injured.
Another resident, Miriam Siria, lamented that they have been finding it hard to access hospitals, especially for expectant mothers who need urgent medical attention.
“Last week we lost an expectant mother as she was being rushed to hospital as vehicles couldn’t use the route and she was carried on a bodaboda,” Siria said.
