President William Ruto has begun his four-day tour of the Gusii region, aiming to bolster his support in the area ahead of the 2027 General Election. On Sunday, November 8, Ruto addressed a congregation at an interdenominational prayer service in Nyamira County. He outlined his development agenda for the region, including new projects and initiatives to improve infrastructure and connectivity. Ruto's visit comes amid scrutiny over the completion of previously launched projects in the region.
Ruto announced plans to construct a four-lane dual carriageway from Mau Summit, traversing seven counties, and linking it to the Eldoret-Malaba Highway. The project will start in April, once the dualling of the Rironi-Mau Summit road is completed. The mega infrastructure project will pass through Nakuru, Kericho, Bomet, Nyamira, and Kisii counties. Additionally, the Kisii-Kisumu Highway will be dualled to four lanes, connecting Homa Bay and Kisumu Counties to the Eldoret-Malaba Highway.
The President also unveiled plans to construct a stadium in Magwagwa at a cost of Sh1 billion and another stadium in Nyamaiya. Various roads in the county are earmarked for tarmacking, with contractors warned that failure to deliver on time will result in replacement. Ruto cited one road where the previous contractor was sent packing, and a new one identified to proceed with the project.
On the first day of his visit, Ruto commissioned an ICT hub and flagged the Last Mile Electricity Connectivity Project in West Mugirango constituency. The project will benefit 700 homes, with the government investing Sh500 million to connect 6,840 households to electricity in Nyamira County. The President also provided an update on the construction of Nyamira University, which is progressing well and set to admit its first cohort of learners in September 2027.
Ruto's visit comes amid criticism of a trend of grand projects being announced, launched, and inspected multiple times, with concerns over the completion of projects within budget and on time. The President's efforts aim to consolidate his support in the Gusii region, a key battleground in the 2027 presidential elections. His development pledges and direct engagements with residents are part of a charm offensive in the region.
The Gusii region has become increasingly important in Kenyan politics, with former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i being a key figure in the area. Ruto's administration is seeking to make inroads in the region, which has been a stronghold for Matiang'i. The President's development agenda and project announcements aim to demonstrate his commitment to the region's growth and development.
As Ruto's tour continues, residents and stakeholders will be watching closely to see the implementation of the announced projects and the impact on the region's infrastructure and economy. The President's efforts to improve connectivity, infrastructure, and access to essential services will be crucial in determining his support in the region ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Key points
- President Ruto announces plans to construct a four-lane dual carriageway from Mau Summit to Eldoret-Malaba Highway.
- The government invests Sh500 million to connect 6,840 households to electricity in Nyamira County.
- Ruto unveils plans to construct two new stadiums in Magwagwa and Nyamaiya at a cost of Sh1 billion.
