President William Ruto has committed to completing a raft of development projects in the Nyanza region as part of the broad-based government.
This is after assuring the public that he and opposition leader, Raila Odinga, remain on the same page despite Odinga’s failed bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship.
The projects, which include roads, water projects, and industrial hubs, signal a fresh attempt to cement the broad-based government that is facing serious criticism from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka.
“We are now more interested in long-term friendships and enduring partnerships like this one. We are grateful people and take note of those who stood with us as genuine friends both in broad-based government and the AUC chairmanship race,” the government has asserted.
Among the key projects outlined for completion is the Lake Region Ring Road, which aims to boost trade and connectivity.
The long-stalled Koru-Soin and Magwagwa dams are also set to receive renewed attention, promising improved water supply and agricultural productivity.
Ruto’s administration has also pledged to revitalise sugar companies, a critical sector of the region’s economy. The initiative includes revamping cane processing plants and clearing debts that have crippled operations for years.
In what is seen as a direct appeal to fishing communities, the government has committed to fast-tracking the establishment of a fish processing plant and completing the Homa Bay Modern Fish Market, which is expected to benefit over 2,000 traders.
The government also announced plans to upgrade marine transport by rehabilitating piers in Kendu Bay, Mbita, and Asembo Bay. Additionally, the launch of MV Uhuru 2 is set to enhance transportation and boost economic activities on Lake Victoria.
Affordable housing projects in Siaya, Kisumu, and Migori counties are also in the pipeline, with Ruto promising to address the region’s housing deficit.
The Alego Usonga project, featuring 882 residential units, is among those earmarked for fast-tracking.
In Kisumu, a 2,348-unit affordable housing scheme in Lumumba is expected to transform the city’s landscape. The commissioning of the Lake Basin Mall and the Lake Victoria Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre further underscores the administration’s economic agenda for the region.
