President William Ruto’s development tour of the Mt. Kenya region has been met with widespread enthusiasm, solidifying his influence in the vote-rich region. Across Nyeri, Meru, Laikipia, Kirinyaga, and Nyandarua, citizens and leaders alike have warmly embraced his visit, recognizing his commitment to transformative development projects. From affordable housing to modern markets and hospitals, Ruto’s tour signals a new era of progress for the people of Mt. Kenya.
In Nyeri, President Ruto was received with cheers as he launched several projects, including a major affordable housing initiative aimed at providing decent homes and creating employment opportunities for the youth. Notably, in Kieni Constituency, Nyeri County, the President launched the Last Mile Electricity Connectivity project, commissioned 16 classroom blocks at Narumoru Primary School, and inspected progress at the Narumoru Market. Additionally, he inspected ongoing infrastructural developments, reaffirming his dedication to enhancing the county’s economic landscape. His presence in Nyeri underscored his continued appeal among residents, who turned out in large numbers to show support.
Meru County was no different, as Ruto commissioned the Kibiru Beef Feedlot to boost livestock production Tigania West. He also issued 10,800 title deeds to residents of the area besides inaugurated new market spaces to boost small-scale traders. In Igembe South, Meru Ruto launched the Maua Sewerage Line that will serve over 13,000 people in Maua. Later, he laid the foundation stone for the construction of the Maua Modern Market. His engagement with local leaders demonstrated a shared vision for the county’s future, emphasizing development over political distractions. Even leaders previously aligned with the impeached former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua welcomed Ruto, prioritizing service delivery over political maneuvering.
Laikipia residents celebrated the President’s visit, lauding his administration for channeling resources into the region. The President began by flagging off the Last Mile Connectivity Project in Ng’arachi, Laikipia West Constituency. He also commissioned the rehabilitated Ng’arachi Comprehensive School, one of the nine schools the government has rehabilitated in the county following destruction of education infrastructure by bandits and cattle rustlers.
In Nanyuki town, Laikipia East Constituency, President Ruto laid the foundation stone for the construction of 10 classrooms at Nanyuki District Education Board Primary and Junior Secondary School. He also inspected the KSh350 million Nanyuki Modern Market and addressed residents on the other programmes being undertaken in the country’s journey of transformation. He also visited the 200-unit Nanyuki Affordable Housing Project that is now 97 per cent complete. Ruto’s reception in Laikipia was a clear testament that his political grip remains firm, dispelling any claims of diminishing support.
In Kirinyaga, President Ruto commissioned expansion of Kagio market and a Goat Artificial Insemination (A.I) Center at Ahiti Ndomba in Mwea Constituency. His tour also saw the unveiling of several water projects to aid irrigation, a move that was highly praised by local farmers. The political significance of his visit was evident as Kirinyaga leaders, regardless of party affiliations, rallied behind the President, further highlighting the waning influence of Rigathi Gachagua.
Nyandarua, a region often overlooked in national politics, witnessed a development boost with Ruto’s visit. The President promised Sh800 million to complete the stalled J.M. Kariuki Memorial County Referral Hospital. The President also flagged off the Last Mile Electricity Connectivity Project at the Jua Kali Stage, Ol Kalou Town and inspected the Ol Kalou Affordable Housing project and officially commissioned construction of Engineer wholesale and retail market at a cost of Sh380 million. His presence drew leaders from across the divide, demonstrating a growing consensus that development must take precedence over divisive regional politics.
Ruto’s tour of Mt. Kenya has also exposed the vulnerabilities of Rigathi Gachagua, whose influence is rapidly fading. Once perceived as a regional kingpin, Gachagua’s efforts to consolidate Mt. Kenya into his political stronghold have flopped flat in the face of Ruto’s strategic engagements. His tribal and regional politics now appear outdated as development-minded leaders shift their allegiance toward the President.
Even staunch allies of the former Deputy President have embraced Ruto’s tour, emphasizing that the well-being of their constituents comes first. The era of fencing Mt. Kenya for selfish political gain, as attempted by Gachagua, has collapsed. Leaders now acknowledge that individualistic politics cannot stand against the wave of development-driven governance championed by Ruto.
The tour has not only reinforced Ruto’s stronghold in Mt. Kenya but also showcased the extensive investments his administration has made in the region. Several projects have received capital boosts for timely completion, ensuring long-term economic benefits. The youth, in particular, stand to gain immensely from employment opportunities created by these initiatives.
Ultimately, President William Ruto’s development tour of Mt. Kenya has reshaped the region’s political landscape. While his administration continues to unlock progress, his former deputy’s influence continues to dwindle. With the people prioritizing tangible development over political rhetoric, Ruto’s grip on the region remains unwavering, positioning him as the undisputed leader of Mt. Kenya’s political and economic transformation.
