The foot of Ruma Hills in Gwassi underdeveloped touristic sites

Gwassi: MP’s vision for Gwassi
By Jack Nduri

Gwassi MP, John Ng’ong’o Mbadi, believes it takes more than money to win an elective office.

He says among the 21 opponents he beat, including former MP Zaddock Syongoh, were financially endowed individuals.

“The victory came as a surprise to my family and I. I did not think I could emerge the victor among a pack of prominent people,” he says.

Education: Went to Kokuro in Migori between 1987 and 1990. Later joined University of Nairobi for a Bachelor of Commerce. Graduated in 1996. Holds an MBA from Maseno University and CPA (K).

The MP says he is glad his constituents refused to be lured with money. He says instead they voted for ‘progressive leadership and development’.

Mbadi has a daunting task to fulfil his pledges considering that Gwassi, hived of the expansive Mbita constituency in 1997, is one of the poorest constituencies despite its resources. The fish industry, the major source of livelihood, is at its lowest point due to lack of storage facilities. Middlemen have taken advantage of the poor storage and roads to exploit fishermen.

Voters look at the 37 year-old MP with great expectations. They want to see how the MP turns round Nyanza’s most rugged and remotest constituency, where roads are mere ruts.

Deforestation of Gwassi hills, the source of water, has led to persistent water shortage. More than a decade ago, the hill was considered a tourist attraction but its allure has diminished due to deforestation.

The constituency is also home to the Ruma National Park. Residents hope the MP will link with the Kenya Tourism Board to promote tourism.

The MP says he will work with the Government and civic organisations to develop the constituency.

Despite receiving more than Sh113 since the inception of the CDF programme, residents says there is little to show for the money.

“With CDF and other funds we can go a long way in improving the living standards of our people,’’ says the MP.

He says youth and women projects are among his priorities.

The MP says he will ensure the three main roads in the area are improved to make the constituency accessible.

“I also plan to use some CDF money to provide clean water, construct health care facilities and improve education infrastructures,” he says.

The MP has submitted a proposal to the District Development Committee for adoption to have Gwassi constituency - just like her neighbour Mbita– classified as hardship area. This will make the constituents benefit from hardship allowances and other privileges.

He is married and has two children.

Courtesy of:http://www.eastandard.net