The Government of Kenya has reaffirmed its commitment to fulfilling campaign promises and driving equitable development across all counties, with a renewed focus on the Nyanza region. Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki, speaking during a development tour in Muhoroni, Kisumu County, emphasized that the Kenya Kwanza administration is determined to spur economic growth through transformative investments in infrastructure, agriculture, fishing, education, and health.
Under this agenda, the government has collaborated with private investors to revitalize key sugar factories in the region, including Sony, Chemelil, Muhoroni, Miwani, and Nzoia. These efforts aim to restore the region’s once-thriving sugar economy by ensuring timely payments and bonuses for sugarcane farmers—mirroring support enjoyed by tea and coffee growers in other parts of Kenya.
The transport sector has not been left behind. Major roadworks, such as the 52-kilometer Mamboleo–Miwani–Muhoroni road, have resumed construction to improve the movement of people and goods. Furthermore, 17 new Economic Stimulus Programme (ESP) markets are under development across Kisumu County, aimed at empowering small-scale traders with modern, dignified trading spaces.
To bolster the blue economy, the government is constructing state-of-the-art fish landing sites across lakeside counties—Homa Bay, Migori, Kisumu, Siaya, and Busia—equipped with cold storage facilities to reduce post-harvest losses. Additionally, financial grants will be issued to Beach Management Units (BMUs) to support fish production and promote value addition within the fishing communities.
In healthcare, Prof. Kindiki announced plans to expand insurance coverage through the Social Health Authority (SHA). With only half of the Kenyan population currently insured, the government targets 100% coverage within two years. Kisumu County has made commendable progress, enrolling over 600,000 of its 1.2 million residents.
Lastly, youth empowerment remains a top priority. The Kazi Mtaani programme has been reinstated to provide youth with jobs in environmental conservation projects. Meanwhile, Kisumu is benefiting from the Affordable Housing Programme, with 2,348 units underway at Lumumba Estate and more planned for satellite towns and student hostels in local colleges. These initiatives affirm the government’s promise to inclusively develop all regions without discrimination.
