By Alex Maina
For the residents of Kambi Thomas, Transformer, Kolombo, Kambi Mwangi, Keroka, Judea, Kapchumba, and Shirika villages, poor roads have become a daily struggle that affects movement, business, and access to essential services. What should be simple journeys have turned into exhausting and frustrating experiences because of the poorly maintained road network connecting these communities.
This concern was strongly raised during the community baraza held on 15th May 2026 at the Kilimani Chief’s Office in Kambi Thomas, where residents gathered to openly discuss challenges affecting their lives. Among the issues raised, the poor condition of roads stood out as one of the most pressing.
Residents explained how most roads within the villages have been neglected for years, leaving them full of potholes, rough surfaces, and sections that become almost impassable whenever it rains. During the dry season, dust becomes unbearable, while during rainy periods muddy and flooded paths make movement nearly impossible.
One young man, Antony Kiptoo, passionately raised concern over the road that runs from Kapyemit Primary to Kapkeben. Frustrated by its condition, he remarked, “Hii si barabara, hii ni shamba. Walileta mchanga ya shamba kwa barabara. Mvua ikinyesha tu ivi lazma gumboot zivaliwe, hadi ukifika kwa lami watu wanashangaa kwani wewe umetoka wapi ” His words drew strong reactions from residents who agreed that the road has become nearly unusable, especially during rainy seasons when it turns slippery and dangerous for pedestrians, boda boda riders, and vehicles.
Adding to the discussion, Kevin Kibore of BUDA CBO also highlighted the poor state of Kapchumba Road, describing it as a long-standing challenge affecting the community. He emphasized the need for structured action and accountability in addressing the issue.
“This road has been a trouble for us. We will partner with the community and do a follow-up concept as we identify who is responsible for upgrading several roads in our community,” he said. He further added that once the responsible authorities are identified, formal letters will be written to ensure proper follow-up and to push for the upgrading of these roads. He stressed that organized communication and persistence will be key in making the development a reality.
Responding to the concerns raised, Madam Rose Chelimo from the office of the Ward Administrator assured residents that their concerns had been heard and that action would be taken regarding the poor state of roads in the area. She acknowledged the frustrations shared by the community and emphasized that road improvement remains a priority for local development.
She also urged residents to actively attend public participation forums organized for ward development planning. She explained that these meetings provide an important opportunity for residents to raise their concerns directly and influence which projects are prioritized.
“Ensure your voice is heard during public participation because that is how action is taken on projects raised by the people,” she said.
Her remarks encouraged residents to remain actively involved in development processes and to continue engaging leadership constructively.
As the baraza concluded, residents agreed on a clear way forward, identify responsible authorities, prepare formal follow-up letters, and participate actively in public forums to push for road upgrades. The message was clear through unity, persistence, and civic engagement, broken roads can become pathways to development for Kambi Thomas, Transformer, Kolombo, Kambi Mwangi, Keroka, Judea, Kapchumba, and Shirika villages.
