Abdulswamad Nassir, Governor of Mombasa and Deputy Party Leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), has called for equitable national development through targeted investments in historically marginalized regions.
Speaking during the Annual Fundraising Event for the Malindi Islamic Centre for Orphans in Kilifi, Nassir emphasized the need to correct longstanding regional disparities in Kenya’s development trajectory.
Historical Inequalities in Development
The Governor pointed to the enduring impact of Sessional Paper No. 10 of 1965, which prioritized investment in selected high-potential regions at the expense of others. According to Nassir, this policy framework contributed to decades of underdevelopment in regions such as the Coast.
He noted that leaders from the region have long advocated for more inclusive growth, referencing the late Ronald Ngala, who championed majimbo (regionalism) as a pathway to equitable resource distribution and self-determination.
Devolution as a Turning Point
Nassir credited reforms championed by Raila Odinga and other pro-democracy actors with laying the foundation for 2010 Constitution of Kenya, which introduced devolution.
He described devolution as a transformative governance model that has enabled counties to allocate resources based on local priorities and accelerate development in previously neglected areas.
“As ODM, we remain committed to carrying forward the vision of our founding leadership by advocating for the economic liberation of our people,” Nassir said.
Focus on Strategic Infrastructure
The Governor welcomed the proposed National Infrastructure Fund, describing it as a key opportunity to drive large-scale investments. However, he stressed that such initiatives must prioritise regions that have historically experienced underinvestment.
He highlighted critical infrastructure needs in the Coast region, including modernization of airport facilities and the expansion of the Mombasa–Nairobi transport corridor.
According to Nassir, enhancing these assets would strengthen the region’s role as a commercial gateway through the Port of Mombasa, which serves East and Central Africa.
“These investments are not merely regional demands; they are national economic imperatives,” he said, noting that improved logistics infrastructure would unlock trade, create employment, and stimulate growth across multiple sectors.
National Implications
Nassir’s remarks come amid ongoing national discussions on equitable resource allocation and infrastructure financing. His call underscores the importance of aligning development strategies with inclusivity goals to ensure balanced growth across Kenya.
