President William Ruto's government is set to roll out a series of major projects in the Nyanza region, aimed at reviving the sleeping economy in counties considered to be ODM Party leader Raila Odinga's stronghold.
These developments were revealed by Deputy Chief of Staff in the Executive Office of the President, Eliud Owalo, who comprehensively outlined the government's ambitious plan during a special church service in Rarieda, Siaya County.
During the event, Owalo noted that the Nyanza region had been marginalised in terms of development in recent years due to what he termed as "bad politics".
While reiterating Ruto's broad-based government, Owalo noted 10 tangible projects the government had identified in the greater Nyanza region, including the extension of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), which he claims would extend from Naivasha through to Kisumu, Asembo to Ugenya and towards the Malaba border. This, according to Owalo, would consequently boost trade and connectivity.
Another major project highlighted on Sunday was the revival of the Kisumu International Airport. "We want to be able to transport products like fish directly to foreign markets," Owalo noted.
Also, a priority in Nyanza is water infrastructure, with Owalo revealing the government's plans to sort out the long-delayed Koru-Soin Dam, which is largely seen as a long-term solution to the biting flooding challenges in the Kano Plains.
Owalo also revealed there would be an aggressive drive to ensure nearly all the homes in Kisumu County have water connectivity while also supplementing the work of the Sondu Miriu Dam, which supports power generation.
Further development plans include the construction of the Magwagwa Dam, which Owalo says will go a long way in supporting the Nyanza economy with a partnership from stakeholders in Kisii and Kisumu.
Another key project is the 19.34-kilometre Rusinga Ring Road, which was launched in August 2024. The project's anticipated date of completion is July 2025, with Owalo predicting that its completion would unlock transportation to the island's beaches and fishing areas.
Further development plans include the construction of the Magwagwa Dam, which will be pursued in partnership with stakeholders in Kisii and Kisumu. This dam is expected to enhance irrigation, provide clean drinking water, and contribute to the region’s energy needs.
In the agriculture sector, the government is setting its sights on revitalising the cotton and sugar industries, both of which have suffered years of neglect, according to Owalo. These sectors, once vibrant, are seen as vital to restoring the region’s economic strength.
Owalo also highlighted the mining sector as a critical area of concern, pointing out that despite Nyanza's rich mineral resources, the region continues to suffer neglect even after years of extensive mining activity.
"We will sort out the mining in Nyanza. The only indicator of mining is big holes where people fall in and die. We want to change the laws so that anywhere mining is taking place, a substantial amount of proceeds goes to the local people." Owalo promised.
