By Alex Maina
In Kapseret, life feels like a daily battle, not because people are lazy, but because the roads fight against them. From Aturei to Kabongo and Tuiyo, the paths are full of deep potholes, mud, and rough stones. These roads, instead of leading people to better lives, are holding them back.
Mr. Kipkosgei, a boda boda rider who depends on his motorbike to feed his family, shares his pain. “These roads destroy my bike, and I spend so much money fixing it,” he says, wiping sweat from his face. “When it rains, the roads become dangerous, and fewer people want to ride with me. How can I take care of my family if I can’t work?”
Just a few kilometers away, Mary Chebet, a mother and small-scale farmer, walks through her farm slowly. Her voice breaks as she speaks. “When trucks don’t come because the roads are bad, my crops rot on the farm. I lose my hard work and my money. It’s so painful.” She bends down and picks up spoiled vegetables from the soil—what was supposed to feed her children now feeds no one.
The poor roads are affecting every part of life. Children have to walk long distances to school, sometimes in the rain, and many end up missing classes. Sick people struggle to get to hospitals. During heavy rains, the roads flood, cutting off entire villages. A simple emergency can turn into a tragedy.
Even when the roads are “repaired,” it doesn’t help for long. Mr. Kipkosgei explains, “They fix the roads with stones that disappear quickly. The holes come back, and we suffer again.” The people feel like they are crying out, but no one is truly listening.
The community is not asking for luxury. They just want good roads that last, that help them move, sell, grow, and live without fear. Strong roads mean farmers like Mary can sell their crops. Riders like Kipkosgei can work in peace. Children can reach school safely. And sick people can get help in time.
Better roads make an area achieve its potential. Lets wait and see
