Western Region Promised Massive Development Loads As Ruto Led Madaraka Day In Bungoma
President William Ruto announced millions of shillings worth of goodies for Bungoma residents even as he leads Madaraka Day celebrations in the county on Saturday.
The President arrived in Bungoma on Thursday for a four-day visit, which coincides with this year’s Madaraka Day.
Ruto will lead the country in commemorating the day at Masinde Muliro Stadium.
The visit comes as some regional leaders have criticized Ruto’s administration for ‘marginalising’ the Western region.
“Our people are struggling economically, questioning why Kikuyu constituency received Sh1.2 billion for roads, more than Busia, Vihiga, Kakamega, Bungoma, and Trans Nzoia combined,” Bumula MP Jack Wamboka said.
“How can we claim to be in government when our regions are neglected?” he posed.
Last month, Saboti MP Caleb Amisi accused the government of marginalizing the region through a skewed distribution of resources.
“Kikuyu constituency alone has received Sh1.4 billion for road maintenance while the entire Western region comprising of five counties and 39 constituencies has only received Sh50 million inside Kakamega State Lodge,” he said.
On Friday, Government Spokesman Isaac Mwaura announced the President’s bag of goodies for the region.
He revealed that the government is investing Sh1.6 billion in affordable housing projects in Bungoma, Kakamega, Busia, Trans Nzoia, and Vihiga.
He stated that the government is also improving infrastructure and social services in the region.
The state has completed the Sh807 million Masinde Muliro project in Kanduyi Sub-County, as well as the Sh139 million rehabilitation of Matulo Airstrip for commercial flight operations.
“The national government is putting resources to give a boost to the western tourism circuit,” Mwaura said.
On Thursday, Ruto donated Sh10 million to the Machakha Technical Training Institute for its expansion.
The President also donated 100 computers.
“These computers are expected to enhance the digital literacy and technical skills of the students, aligning with the government’s commitment to advancing education and technological proficiency,” he said.
He also announced that Sh150 million in workers’ arrears had been disbursed.
“This payment is anticipated to boost the morale of the workers and stabilise operations at the company,” he said.
The President also announced that Nzoia farmers will receive the remaining 20% of their Sh54 million dues beginning Monday, ensuring they are fully compensated for their produce.
The President also announced plans to restore Agricultural Development Corporation tractors at Nzoia Company.
“This initiative helps maintain the nuclear estate in prime condition, thereby supporting agricultural productivity and efficiency,” he said.
Ruto also stated that the Treasury has released Sh61 million to continue the construction of the Industrial Park at Sang’alo.
The President stated that the funding will speed up the park’s development, which is expected to become a hub for industrial activity and job creation.
President Ruto announced a Kshh27 billion rural electrification programme, which will significantly improve the area’s infrastructure.
The President stated that the programme will connect 600,000 residents to electricity over the next two years.
Wetang’ula praised the President for his commitment to development and improving the country’s fortunes.
“The President has left his State House in Nairobi and decided to spend four days with us here. Isn’t that genuine love for the people of Bungoma?” he said.
“During the last general election, we traversed this region with you, engaging our people with respectful dialogue,” Wetang’ula added.
He emphasized the President’s loyalty and reciprocal gestures, noting the appointment of several regional officials to high-level government positions.
“In the last government, we had only one Cabinet Secretary from this region. Now, we have our daughter Susan Nakhumicha as Health CS, Ababu Namwamba as Sports CS, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, yours truly as the Speaker of the National Assembly several Principal Secretaries and ambassadors.”
“This is truly our government,” he said.
The Speaker urged residents to support the Kenya Kwanza government and give it time to fulfill its promises.
He confirmed that the funds for Nzoia staff and the balance for farmers had been distributed.
“We will have a productive time with the President, who will meet various stakeholders to discuss the development of our region,” he said.
Wetang’ula also emphasized the importance of Bungoma hosting Madaraka Day, describing it as an honor that means a lot to the community.
He urged leaders and citizens to work together to achieve meaningful progress.
Leaders present included Education CS Ezekiel Machogu, Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka, Bungoma Senator Wafula Wakoli, MPs, Didmus Barasa (Kimilili) and John Waluke (Sirisia).
Other MPs present were Martin Wanyonyi (Webuye East), Dan Wanyama (Webuye West) and John Chikati (Tongaren).
Western Region Promised Massive Development Loads As Ruto Led Madaraka Day In Bungoma
