Top Story | Who are the Primary Inhabitants of Garissa Township?
The Electoral Landscape of Garissa Township: A Closer Look
Garissa Town has been the administrative hub of Garissa County after the promulgation of the 2010 constitution and the former capital of North Eastern Province (NEP).
It is renowned for its cosmopolitan nature, offering a rich tapestry of opportunities and experiences, making it a bustling municipality in the region.
The constituency, a melting pot of cultures, is primarily inhabited by ethnic Somalis, with the Ogaden clan forming a significant majority.
It is one six constituencies in Garissa County, which has 201,473 total registered voters across region.
According to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), the constituency boasts a total of 53,253 registered voters spread across its four County Assembly Wards.
Galbet emerges with the highest number of registered voters at 16,698, closely followed by Township with 13,419. Waberi Ward registers 11,657 voters, while Iftin records 11,479 registered voters.
Garissa Township Constituency is represented in parliament by Major (Rtd) Mohamed Dekow Barrow of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), who won a by-election on January 5, 2023.
Mr. Aden Bare Duale resigned as the legislator for Garissa Township after being appointed as a Cabinet Secretary. Aden Duale, who had been re-elected four consecutive times since 2007, had switched parties from ODM to URP to Jubilee before securing the UDA ticket.
The constituency boasts a rich cultural tapestry, evident in its vibrant markets, lively streets, and colorful festivals.
Visitors are treated to a unique blend of traditions, languages, and culinary delights that reflect its multicultural essence.
Economically, Garissa Township Constituency serves as a regional hub, offering a range of opportunities for residents and businesses.
The constituency provides a conducive environment for growth and development from bustling markets to government offices and educational institutions.
The Garissa County Assembly, located within the constituency, comprises 48 MCAs, with 30 elected and 18 nominated members.
Mr. Hussein Mohamed, a former nominated member, currently represents Township in the County Assembly.
Waberi Ward is represented in the assembly by Abubakar Haji Sugow of the Kenya African National Union (KANU), while Musdaf Abdirashid Ahmed of Amani National Congress (ANC) represents Iftin Ward.
Galbet Ward is represented by Abubakar Mohamed Khalif of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
Significant infrastructural development in recent years has enhanced the quality of life for residents, with modern roads, schools, healthcare facilities, and recreational spaces transforming the constituency into a dynamic urban center.
At the county level, Nathif Jama serves as the Governor, having garnered 26,342 votes in the 2022 elections.
Mr. Abdulkadir Haji, son of the late Senator Yussuf Haji, represents Garissa Township Constituency and five other constituencies in the Senate, after securing 72,383 votes.
Mrs. Udgoon Siyad holds the position of County Women Representative, having clinched 36.57% of the votes in 2022.
Garissa Township Constituency continues to stand out as a vibrant municipality, shaping the trajectory of Garissa County’s development and progress.