William Ruto has commenced a five-day development tour of Western Kenya, underscoring the government’s commitment to accelerating infrastructure development and economic transformation across the region. The tour, which began in Kakamega County, will see the President inspect and launch several key projects aimed at improving connectivity, boosting trade, and enhancing service delivery to local communities.
Upon arriving in Kakamega on Sunday evening, President Ruto inspected the ongoing rehabilitation and expansion works at Kakamega Airstrip, a strategic infrastructure project expected to significantly enhance regional air connectivity. The modernization of the facility is designed to accommodate increased air traffic and improve access between Western Kenya and major cities across the country.
The President emphasized that the upgrade of the Kakamega Airstrip will play a critical role in opening up the region to new economic opportunities. Improved air connectivity is expected to facilitate faster movement of people and goods, strengthen regional trade networks, and attract more investors seeking to tap into Western Kenya’s growing economic potential.
In addition to boosting commerce, the upgraded airstrip is also expected to support the expansion of tourism activities within the region. Western Kenya is home to numerous cultural and natural attractions, and enhanced transport infrastructure will make it easier for both domestic and international tourists to access these destinations.
As part of the tour, the President is also scheduled to inspect the construction of the Budalang’i Modern Market in Busia County. The modern market facility is expected to provide improved trading spaces for small-scale traders, farmers, and entrepreneurs while promoting organized commerce and better working conditions for thousands of local businesses.
Another key project on the President’s itinerary is the inspection of the Mundere Okando–Sio Port–Nangina Road in Budalang’i. The road project is expected to enhance transport connectivity within the region, facilitate the movement of agricultural produce to markets, and improve access to social services for residents.
President Ruto’s tour is also expected to involve engagement with local leaders, community representatives, and stakeholders across the Western Kenya region. These interactions are intended to provide a platform for the government to update residents on ongoing development initiatives while gathering feedback on priority areas that require further attention.
The five-day tour reflects the administration’s broader development agenda aimed at strengthening infrastructure, expanding economic opportunities, and promoting inclusive growth across the country. Through projects such as improved roads, modern markets, and upgraded air transport facilities, the government aims to position Western Kenya as a key driver of regional trade, investment, and sustainable economic development.
