The long-awaited operationalisation of Maalimin Division was finally realised on Friday, ending years of anticipation since it was first gazetted.
The milestone paves the way for improved access to government services and more effective local administration for residents.
Garissa Governor Nathif Jama, Lagdera MP Mohamed Abdikadir, Garissa County Commissioner Mohamed Mwabudzo and other local leaders presided over the event, describing it as a major milestone in bringing government services closer to the people.
Lagdera MP Mohamed Abdikadir said the move will enhance administrative efficiency and improve security coordination.
Abdikadir said it will ensure residents access essential public services without travelling long distances.
Sheikh Warsame Abdi said making the Maalimin Division fully operational is critical in deepening governance and service delivery at the grassroots level.
He said when such units become fully functional, they decentralise government services, reduce the distance residents must travel to access documentation, security services and public programs.
“It will also enhance coordination between national and county governments.”
The leaders laid the foundation stone for the new Maalimin Girls’ Senior Secondary School.
“This initiative will expand access to quality education for girls in the area, and the county government is committed to fast-tracking its completion,” said Garissa Governor Nathif Jama.
He added, “this institution will empower our girls with education and open doors for greater opportunities.”
The Governor also inaugurated the newly constructed Afwein Maternity at Afwein Dispensary, a facility expected to improve maternal healthcare services in the area.
The maternity wing will provide safer and more accessible services to expectant mothers, reducing the need to travel to distant health centres.
Governor Nathif announced plans to upgrade the dispensary to a Level III health centre.
He said the upgrade will enable the facility to offer additional services, including laboratory support and expanded outpatient care.
He confirmed plans to improve infrastructure at Afwein Secondary School and establish a mini-grid power project to supply electricity to Maalimin and Afwein towns.
“The electricity rollout will spur local business growth, enhance security and improve living standards for residents,” said Mr. Jama.
Ahmed Haji, a resident, said the commencement of operations of Maalimin Division strengthens accountability, will improve response to local challenges, and creates a formal structure for planning and development.
“Bringing administration closer to the people promotes inclusion, speeds up decision-making, and ensures that marginalised communities benefit more equitably from public resources and opportunities,” he added.
