President William Ruto has assured residents of the Lower Eastern region that their rightful share of national development is guaranteed, emphasizing that Machakos, Makueni, and Kitui counties will no longer be left behind.
Speaking at State House Nairobi to over 1,500 grassroots leaders and professionals, the President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to equitable development, declaring, “I will not allow Ukambani to be left behind. We shall move together as one nation.”
Flanked by religious leaders, MPs, county assembly speakers, and Cabinet officials, Ruto outlined an ambitious agenda already underway in the region. He highlighted the affordable housing program as a cornerstone of his legacy, with thousands of housing units under construction across key towns.
The initiative, he said, is not just about shelter but about jobs, dignity, and slum eradication.
“It is so transformative that in the next 10 to 15 years, we will have totally eradicated the problem of slums in our capital and across Kenya,” he said.
On infrastructure and utilities, Ruto noted that significant funds have been allocated to extend electricity to thousands of households and complete major water projects like the Thwake Dam.
Compensation for residents affected by road expansions, issuance of title deeds, and the revival of cotton farming are part of what he described as a long-overdue development revival in the region.
Health was also a key focus. The President defended the Social Health Authority (SHA) amid low registration in Ukambani, urging local leaders to mobilize residents.
He noted that SHA contributions will directly support KEMSA in purchasing drugs, which will now be delivered straight to hospitals instead of being routed through county stores—a system blamed for widespread shortages.
“SHA is working,” he insisted, dismissing what he called falsehoods peddled by political detractors.
In a bid to industrialize the region, Ruto announced plans to commission a KES 40 billion clinker manufacturing plant in Kitui later this year. The plant is expected to create jobs and accelerate economic growth, positioning the county as a key player in the national cement industry.
With clergy, professionals, and elected leaders rallying behind the President’s vision, Ruto’s message was unequivocal: inclusivity, bold leadership, and grassroots engagement will be the engine of Kenya’s transformation.
