Neglected corners of Busia County

The government continues to unveil ambitious development plans across the country, residents in parts of Busia are raising concerns over what they describe as years of neglect and broken promises.

According to nurse Catherine wandera the casual workers are not paid for 31 months and there is no electricity in Nelaa Dispensary, Butula Sub-County. This has led to inadequate treatment offered to people. 

Several wards in Busia particularly Burumba are grappling with deteriorating infrastructure, stalled public projects, and a lack of basic services. 

Despite being part of a county that borders Uganda and serves as a key trade gateway, these areas remain visibly underdeveloped.

One of the most glaring issues is the collapsed sewage system in Busia Town, which has become a health hazard for residents. Deputy Governor Arthur Odera admitted that the county government has taken no action to rehabilitate the treatment works, despite knowing the risks posed to communities living near the facility.

“We are aware of the extremely poor state of our sewage system and treatment works,” Odera said, acknowledging that untreated waste continues to flow into local waterways, endangering public health.

Ironically, this comes at a time when the national government is touting its commitment to equitable development. 

President Ruto recently declared that “no region will be left behind” as he launched a multi-billion-shilling development plan in Kisumu. Yet, for many in Busia, such promises ring hollow.

Local residents are now calling for urgent intervention. They argue that while some markets like Bukhalalire have sturn to a bush , the broader picture remains bleak. Schools lack proper facilities, health centers are under-equipped, and youth unemployment continues to rise.

As the country moves forward with its development agenda, the people of Busia are asking a simple question: When will our turn come?