Ruto Pledges Development Without Borders, Launches Major Projects in Kisumu
NAIROBI — President William Ruto has declared national unity as the foundation of his administration’s development agenda, highlighting renewed cooperation with former Prime Minister Raila Odinga as vital to delivering projects that reach all parts of the country.
Speaking during a meeting with Kisumu leaders at State House Nairobi, Ruto described the current political collaboration as essential to breaking long-standing regional divides.
“This government is not mine or Raila’s alone. It is a product of God’s will,” Ruto said. “It has enabled us to make bold, inclusive decisions and implement development fairly across the country.”
Ruto used the meeting to announce a string of multi-billion-shilling projects targeting key sectors in Kisumu and the Lake Region.
Flagship projects unveiled for Kisumu
The president revealed a KSh700 million plan to upgrade Moi Stadium Kisumu into a modern sports complex. Additional projects announced include:
- KSh700 million for solar-powered infrastructure at the Ahero Irrigation Scheme to boost rice production.
- A KSh3.5 billion rice value chain modernization program in partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
- Upgrade of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital to Level 6, with KSh3 billion allocated.
- Construction of a second ferry by Kenya Shipyards Limited to improve connectivity across Lake Victoria.
- Ongoing work at the Lake Victoria Search and Rescue Centre, currently 35% complete.
- Development of the Kabonyo Fisheries and Aquaculture Centre, valued at KSh1.3 billion, designed to produce up to 30 million fish fingerlings annually.
“These investments reflect our promise to unite the country through action, not words,” Ruto said. “No region, no community will be sidelined.”
National progress highlighted
Beyond Kisumu, Ruto pointed to national gains made under his administration:
- Maize production has grown from 44 million to 65 million bags, with a target of 75 million.
- Sugar imports have dropped by 75%, and maize imports by 90%, following farm sector reforms.
- Seven million Kenyans are now registered with the Social Health Authority, which has settled KSh41 billion in medical claims in eight months.
- Over 700,000 affordable housing units are planned, creating 250,000 jobs.
- 76,000 teachers have been hired in the last two years, with another 24,000 to be employed by the end of this year.
Bipartisan unity gets applause
Ruto’s remarks come at a time of growing bipartisan engagement. The Kisumu delegation, led by Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o, included Members of Parliament, County Assembly representatives, religious leaders, business leaders, and professionals.
The President assured the group that development decisions are being made with national interests in mind.
“With unity and a common goal, Kenya’s transformation cannot be stopped,” Ruto said. “Our responsibility is to build a country where every Kenyan sees and feels the impact of government.”
The meeting reflects an evolving political climate in Kenya, where alliances once defined by rivalry now appear to be shaping national policy through cooperation and mutual interest.
