President William Ruto has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive national development, emphasizing that unity with former Prime Minister Raila Odinga is a key driver of Kenya’s ongoing transformation.
Speaking at State House Nairobi during a meeting with Kisumu leaders led by Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o, President Ruto described the cooperation across political lines as essential to achieving a truly national agenda that benefits all regions.
“Our broad-based government is neither the creation of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga nor myself—it is God-sent,” said Ruto. “It has given us the political goodwill to make bold decisions and implement a development plan that leaves no one behind.”
During the event, the President unveiled a series of multi-billion-shilling projects aimed at uplifting Kisumu and the wider Nyanza region. These include:
- KSh700 million to modernize Moi Stadium Kisumu into a state-of-the-art sports complex;
- KSh700 million for solar-powered upgrades at the Ahero Irrigation Scheme to boost rice production;
- A KSh3.5 billion rice modernization programme in collaboration with JICA;
- KSh3 billion to elevate Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital to Level 6 status;
- Construction of a second ferry by Kenya Shipyards Ltd to enhance Lake Victoria transport;
- The Lake Victoria Search and Rescue Centre, now 35% complete;
- The KSh1.3 billion Kabonyo Fisheries and Aquaculture Centre, which aims to produce up to 30 million fingerlings annually.
President Ruto underscored his administration’s philosophy of uniting the country through equitable development rather than political division.
“Inclusive development is the engine of our nation’s prosperity. No region or community will be left behind,” he declared.
The President also highlighted notable national gains, including:
- A rise in maize production from 44 million to 65 million bags, with a target of 75 million;
- A 75% drop in sugar imports and a 90% decline in maize imports due to agricultural reforms;
- 7 million Kenyans registered under the Social Health Authority, which has paid out KSh41 billion in claims within eight months;
- Over 700,000 affordable housing units under construction, creating 250,000 jobs;
- 76,000 new teacher hires over two years, with plans to employ 24,000 more this year.
The Kisumu delegation included MPs, MCAs, clergy, elders, professionals, and business leaders. President Ruto assured them, and all Kenyans, that the government remains focused on prosperity for all.
“With unity and shared purpose, Kenya’s transformation is unstoppable,” he concluded.
Written By Rodney Mbua
