President William Ruto intensified his effort to woo Luo Nyanza yesterday by unveiling a new package of projects for the region, which has for years been an opposition stronghold.
The President promised to complete several roads, deliver more affordable housing units, and increase power connectivity following the completion of the first phase of the rural electrification programme.
The Head of State met Migori leaders, including Governor Ochilo Ayacko, MPs, and MCAs, at the Awendo Green Stadium, where he announced that the new projects would commence soon.
“Between now and December, we are going to spend Sh2 billion on the rural electrification programme in Migori County. We will inject more funds after the first phase is complete. This will ensure that every home gets electricity,” he said.
Ruto laid the ground for the construction of 300 units in the affordable housing project in Awendo town.
He also said the construction of men’s hostels at the Kenya Medical Training College, to accommodate 180 students, would begin next week.
“When this work is done, I will ensure 500 more houses are constructed here. We want our people to live in decent houses,” he said.
He urged the youth to take advantage of the affordable housing project, saying it was designed to provide jobs.
President Ruto highlighted that 18 new markets were being constructed in the county, adding that the government would ensure small-scale traders work in a conducive environment.
The President said that, in addition to transforming the sugarcane sector, his administration would ensure cane farmers receive bonuses in December.
Ruto stated that all stalled roads would be completed, while eight new ones would be built.
He pointed out that plans were underway to make the expansion of the Lower Kuja Irrigation Scheme a reality.
He said his mission to unite Kenyans would not be disrupted.
“They are trying to tell us that they will divide this country through hate and ethnicity. They cannot go anywhere with hate, ethnicity, and lack of a plan. We have decided, together with (ODM leader) Raila (Odinga), that we will continue uniting this country,” he said.
President Ruto, who highlighted the progress his government has made during the three years he has been in leadership, asked for Migori leaders’ support in fulfilling his agenda.
“I told them that I would have liked to have a conversation with Migori leaders because the Bible says there is no way two people can walk together without agreeing,” he said.
Governor Ochilo Ayacko supported the revival of sugar companies, adding that municipalities would grow because of the affordable housing programme.
“We will work together with you and Raila,” said Ayacko.
Others at the meeting included Senator Eddy Oketch, Woman Representative Fatuma Mohammed, and MPs Walter Owino (Awendo), Junet Mohammed (Suna East), Peter Masara (Suna West), Paul Abuor (Rongo), Maisori Kitayama (Kuria East), Mathias Robi (Kuria West), and their Nyatike counterpart Tom Odege.
