For decades, Awendo’s identity revolved around the sugar industry, with the South Nyanza Sugar Company (SonySugar) serving as the backbone of the local economy. Yet despite its strategic location and growing population, the town struggled with inadequate housing, unplanned urban growth and limited public investment.
Today, the skyline is changing.
Tower cranes, high-rise apartment blocks and construction workers have become a common sight as the national government’s Affordable Housing Programme takes root in the constituency, making Awendo one of Migori County’s fastest-growing urban centres.
The transformation is anchored by three major housing developments spearheaded by the government with the support of Awendo MP Walter Owino.
The flagship Awendo Affordable Housing Project, located near Anindo Comprehensive School, is the largest of the developments. The modern estate will deliver hundreds of housing units alongside commercial spaces, a community centre, children’s playgrounds, internal roads, parking facilities and other social amenities aimed at creating a complete residential neighbourhood.
Construction is also underway at Awendo KMTC, where modern student hostels are being built to address the growing accommodation needs of trainees enrolled at the institution. Once completed, the hostels are expected to reduce reliance on expensive private rentals while improving students’ learning environment.
A third affordable housing project is taking shape at the former National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) grounds, further cementing Awendo’s emergence as a key beneficiary of the government’s urban renewal agenda.
Speaking during an inspection of the ongoing projects, Awendo MP Walter Owino said the developments represented a turning point in the constituency’s history.
“For many years, Awendo has been known for sugar production. Today, we are laying the foundation for a modern municipality. These housing projects are not just putting up buildings—they are creating jobs, opening business opportunities and restoring dignity to families through decent housing,” said Owino.
The legislator said the projects have already created employment for hundreds of local youth working as masons, carpenters, electricians, plumbers, steel fixers and casual labourers, while generating business for transporters, hardware suppliers and food vendors.
“Every truck delivering construction materials, every bag of cement and every artisan on these sites represents income for a local family. That is the true impact of development,” he said.
According to Owino, the housing projects form part of a broader vision to reposition Awendo as an investment destination capable of attracting industries, financial institutions and private investors.
“We want Awendo to become one of the fastest-growing municipalities in Kenya. Modern housing, improved roads, quality healthcare, better education facilities and thriving businesses are all part of that vision. Development must improve people’s lives and create opportunities for future generations,” he added.
The projects complement other ongoing government investments in the constituency, including plans for a modern market and improvements in health and education infrastructure, all aimed at accelerating economic growth.
Housing experts say the Affordable Housing Programme is designed not only to bridge Kenya’s housing deficit but also to stimulate economic activity by creating employment and supporting local industries.
The developments are expected to increase access to decent housing for low- and middle-income earners while reducing pressure on informal settlements that have expanded as Awendo’s population has grown.
Residents have welcomed the projects, saying they are transforming both the physical appearance and economic prospects of the town.
“For a long time, people associated Awendo only with SonySugar. Today, investors are beginning to see a different town—one with modern infrastructure, growing business opportunities and a promising future,” said one resident.
Once synonymous almost exclusively with sugar production, Awendo is steadily reinventing itself as a modern urban centre. With three major housing projects rising simultaneously near Anindo Comprehensive School, Awendo KMTC and the former NCPB grounds, the constituency is positioning itself as one of Migori County’s leading destinations for public investment and urban growth.
If completed on schedule, the developments are expected not only to provide hundreds of affordable homes but also to redefine Awendo’s economic landscape, creating a vibrant municipality where housing, commerce, education and employment opportunities grow hand in hand.
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