Nairobi, Kenya: President William Ruto on Wednesday convened a high-level meeting at State House with elected, appointed, nominated and grassroots leaders from the Ukambani region to discuss ongoing and planned development projects aimed at transforming infrastructure and livelihoods in the three counties of Kitui, Machakos, and Makueni.
The meeting brought together Members of Parliament, Senators, Members of County Assemblies (MCAs), and County Assembly Speakers from Kitui and Machakos. The forum sought to enhance collaboration between the national and county governments in fast-tracking priority projects in the region.
In his opening remarks, President Ruto gave an overview of his administration’s progress since taking office, highlighting the Affordable Housing Programme as one of the transformative initiatives. He noted that the first phase of the Mukuru housing project had already seen beneficiaries receive their keys, marking a milestone in the government’s housing agenda.
The President also outlined his government’s bold economic decisions made in the wake of challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, prolonged droughts, and global instability stemming from the war in Ukraine. He emphasized that these efforts have led to signs of macroeconomic stabilization and renewed investor confidence.
In the agriculture sector, the Head of State pointed to significant reforms in the coffee, tea, and sugar industries, stating that efforts to eliminate cartels and streamline operations had begun to bear fruit. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to reviving the sector as a key pillar of rural economic empowerment.
Addressing regional development, President Ruto announced a list of priority infrastructure projects that have received cabinet approval and are slated for implementation within the next two years. These include:
- Kavandini–Tala Road
- Mwala–Kangundo Road
- Emali–Ukia Road
- Zombe–Mwitika Road
- Completion of Kibwezi–Mwingi Road
- Completion of Thwake Dam
- Construction of Enziu River Bridge — a long-awaited project following multiple tragic incidents during the rainy seasons.
President Ruto emphasized that the projects were not mere pledges but part of a broader government commitment to equitable development across all regions. He called on the local leaders to ensure unity and coordination in pushing for swift implementation and community involvement.
The President used the platform to encourage leaders from across the political divide to work together in the spirit of service delivery, stating that national development should transcend party politics. He reiterated that his administration remains open to engaging all leaders who prioritize the interests of the people.
The State House meeting signals renewed attention to Ukambani’s development agenda and reflects the administration’s strategy of engaging regional leaders in participatory governance. As the nation awaits the rollout of the promised projects, attention will be on the government’s ability to turn commitments into tangible outcomes for residents in the region.
