Senator Abdirahman Ali Hassan Leads Wajir Community in Push for Creation of Wajir South County

Nairobi  – Former Wajir Senator Abdirahman Ali Hassan, popularly known as Olow, has taken the lead in proposals advocating for the creation of Wajir South County on Wednesday. 

The former senator and a career public servant presented his case before the National Dialogue Committee in Kenya.

During the meeting with the National Dialogue Committee at BOMAS, Abdirahman Ali Hassan passionately made his case for the creation of Wajir South County. 

He said various factors, including the region’s significant population, agricultural potential, cross-border trade opportunities, and the need to boost agricultural practices through irrigation. 

He also reiterated the importance of inclusive governance and revenue generation for the proposed county.

The National Dialogue Committee, initiated by President William Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, is tasked with addressing critical issues such as the Senate Oversight Fund, the National Government Constituency Development Fund, and electoral injustices. It comprises 10 members, with representation from both Kenya Kwanza and Azimio factions.

“As a community, we’re advocating for inclusivity in all institutions, fighting against the ‘winner-takes-all’ mentality. We want a Kenya where everyone has a fair chance,” he told the committee. 

Abdirahman Ali Hassan’s plea for the creation of Wajir South County aims to harness the region’s untapped potential and improve the livelihoods of its residents. He also stressed that the proposal does not entail limiting or altering existing boundaries but rather encourages neighboring constituencies to join in the endeavor.

“Our proposal for Wajir South County isn’t about limiting boundaries; it’s about inviting neighboring constituencies to join us in this journey toward progress and unity,” said Senator Abdirahman.

The former senator said his vision for the proposed Wajir South County is one of inclusivity, development, and unity, aligning with the broader goals of the National Dialogue Committee to foster national unity and progress.

Abdirahman Ali Hassan’s journey in politics and his deep ties to the region underscore his commitment to the proposed Wajir South County. Born in Wajir, he received his education at Wajir Primary School and Wajir High School before furthering his studies at the University of Nairobi, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Development Studies.

His political career began in 1997 when he contested the Wajir South Constituency seat but lost to Mohamed Abdi Affey, who currently serves as the UNHCR special envoy to Horn of Africa. He later became the country program coordinator for Oxfam in 1998.

In 2002, Abdirahman Ali Hassan was elected as the member of parliament representing Wajir South constituency. During his tenure, he served as the assistant minister for Trade and Industry from 2005 to 2007 during the first term of President Kibaki’s presidency.

“My plea reflects his dedication to the region’s development and inclusivity, with the hope of unlocking its full potential for the benefit of its residents and Kenya as a whole,” he said. 

He was accompanied by other leaders from the region, including Wajir South MP Mohamed Adow and former Wajir Deputy Governor Ahmed Mukhtar.

Sen. Olow said he is advocating for a collective vision for Wajir South County that encompasses various factors, including the region’s significant population, agricultural potential, cross-border trade opportunities, and the need to boost agricultural practices through irrigation.