The President arrived in Kakamega County on Sunday evening and inspected the ongoing rehabilitation and expansion works at Kakamega Airstrip.
President William Ruto has officially kicked off a five-day development tour of Western Kenya, unveiling a series of multi-billion shilling infrastructure and housing projects across Busia, Kakamega, and Vihiga counties.
The tour began with the launch of the KSh5.5 billion Nasewa Affordable Housing Project in Busia County, a flagship development expected to deliver 2,000 housing units and create employment opportunities for local youth.
Focus on Housing and Industrial Growth
The Nasewa housing project is designed to complement the nearby County Aggregation and Industrial Park, positioning the region as a growing hub for trade and manufacturing.
Speaking during the launch, President Ruto said the government is committed to delivering transformative development projects that uplift livelihoods and expand economic opportunities.
Road Projects to Boost Connectivity
In Busia County, the President also launched the construction of the 13km Nangina–Sio Port–Okados–Mundere road in Budalang’i at a cost of KSh860 million. The road is expected to improve connectivity between Funyula and Budalang’i constituencies, boosting trade across the region.
Additionally, he commissioned the KSh545 million Matayos–Namwitsula Bridge–Nawesa–Shibale road, another key project aimed at enhancing transport networks and facilitating economic activity.
Modern Markets and Electrification
To support small-scale traders, the President laid the foundation stone for the KSh130 million Budalang’i Modern Market, while also launching the KSh270 million Malaha Modern Market in Kakamega County—part of a broader plan to construct 24 modern markets in the region at a total cost exceeding KSh4.4 billion.
In Mumias East Constituency, Kakamega County, he launched a Last Mile Electricity Connectivity project that will connect 161 households to power at a cost of KSh12.7 million.
Ruto noted that the government is investing KSh2.37 billion to connect over 36,700 households to electricity across Kakamega County.
Water and Transport Infrastructure Upgrades
The President also presided over the groundbreaking of the KSh212 million Shitoli Water Project in Ikolomani Constituency. The project, implemented by the Lake Victoria Water Works Development Agency, is expected to provide clean and reliable water to more than 45,000 residents.
In Vihiga County, he launched the rehabilitation of the Chavaki–Lusiola and Shikumu–Malinya roads in Sabatia Constituency at a cost of KSh953 million.
Kakamega Airstrip Upgrade
Earlier, the President inspected ongoing rehabilitation and expansion works at Kakamega Airstrip.
He said upgrading the airstrip will enhance regional air connectivity and unlock economic growth opportunities in Western Kenya.
Call to End ‘Cheap Politics’
During his tour, President Ruto challenged his political opponents to move away from rhetoric and instead present tangible development plans to Kenyans.
“I challenge my critics to tell Kenyans the plans they have if they are, indeed, intelligent people,” he said.
He accused some leaders of failing during their time in office, adding that Kenyans are capable of distinguishing between genuine development efforts and political theatrics.
“The people of Kenya are not foolish. They can see through empty sloganeering,” he said.
Leaders Back Development Agenda
The tour was attended by regional leaders, including:
- Paul Otuoma
- Fernandez Barasa
- Wilberforce Otichilo
Also present were Cabinet Secretaries:
- Wycliffe Oparanya
- Alice Wahome
The leaders praised the government’s investments, noting that housing, infrastructure, and market projects are already transforming livelihoods in the region.
Development Push in Western Kenya
The President emphasized that his administration remains focused on delivering tangible results in key sectors including housing, infrastructure, energy, and water.
He reiterated that Kenya’s development agenda is aimed at ensuring no region is left behind, while urging leaders to embrace issue-based politics.
