By Abdimalik Hajir - Reporter
7 May 2026 - Iftin Ward Representative Mustafa Abdirashid has petitioned Governor Nathif Jama over deteriorating road infrastructure, acute water shortages and severely overcrowded classrooms resulting from years of neglect.
The ward representative wrote to the governor stating that he has consistently raised critical concerns affecting his constituents through appropriate channels, including direct engagements with the governor’s office.
However, these efforts have not yielded the necessary attention or action.
“Most access roads within the ward have become impassable, particularly during periods of flooding. This has significantly disrupted mobility, trade, and access to essential services,” read parts of the letter.
On healthcare services, the county lawmaker said the only Level Four hospital in the ward — Iftin Sub-County Hospital — has operated without a governing board for the past three years.
He added that the health facility lacks basic necessities such as adequate bedding, and the existing wards have been condemned, posing serious risks to patients and staff.
“Residents continue to face acute water shortages, forcing many households to rely on unsafe or unreliable sources,” he said.
On education, Mustafa noted that many children are learning under trees, while others are confined in severely overcrowded classrooms.
This, he said, undermines the quality of education and the dignity of the learners.
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“You took the oath of office with the Holy Qur'an, affirming your commitment to justice, fairness, and service to all people. It is in that spirit that I respectfully remind you that the continued neglect of Iftin Ward risks deepening inequality and undermining public trust in our county government,” he wrote.
He called on the governor to immediately undertake grading and drainage works to restore accessibility, alongside a long-term plan for upgrading key roads to all-weather standards.
Mustafa also requested the urgent reconstitution of the Iftin Sub-County Hospital board, provision of essential medical supplies and bedding, and the rehabilitation or reconstruction of condemned wards.
The Iftin Ward representative further called for the expansion of water supply systems, including borehole drilling, storage facilities and distribution networks, to ensure reliable access to clean water.
He asked the governor to construct additional classrooms and provide temporary learning structures to address overcrowding and eliminate outdoor learning.
“We are asking for the establishment of a transparent and needs-based resource allocation model to ensure all wards receive fair consideration in development planning,” read parts of the petition.
“Your Excellency, my advocacy on these matters has been persistent because the suffering of my constituents is real and urgent. I remain committed to constructive engagement and collaboration for the betterment of the ward and, by extension, the county,” he said.