Leaders from the Nyanza region have lauded President William Samoei Ruto for rolling out an ambitious development blueprint aimed at transforming the region through key infrastructure projects, marking what they describe as a historic shift from decades of perceived marginalization.
Speaking on behalf of residents of Awendo Constituency, Awendo MP Walter Owino expressed gratitude to the Head of State for prioritizing critical development initiatives that are already taking shape on the ground.
“On behalf of the people of Awendo, I sincerely thank President William Ruto for the tangible development projects we are witnessing today. These are not just promises—they are real investments that are already changing lives,” said Owino.
Among the flagship projects highlighted is the ongoing construction of the Awendo Livestock Training Institute, which is expected to boost agricultural skills and enhance livestock productivity across the region.
“The Livestock Training Institute will empower our farmers with modern skills and knowledge. This is a game changer for a constituency that relies heavily on agriculture,” he noted.
In addition, the government has injected over KSh 2 billion into the Awendo Affordable Housing Programme, a move aligned with the President’s national housing agenda aimed at improving living standards while creating jobs.
“The affordable housing project is not only providing decent homes but also creating employment opportunities for our youth. This is how development should be—practical and inclusive,” Owino added.
Further, the construction of hostels at the Awendo campus of the Kenya Medical Training College is set to expand training opportunities for healthcare professionals, addressing both education and healthcare gaps in the region.
“Expanding KMTC facilities in Awendo will strengthen our healthcare system by training more professionals locally. It is a critical investment in our future,” he said.
In a major infrastructure boost, the government has scheduled the groundbreaking for the upgrade of the Kanyawanga–Dede–Rapogi–Awendo road to bitumen standards by May 2026. The road project is expected to significantly improve connectivity, facilitate trade, and open up Awendo and its environs to greater economic opportunities.
“The upgrading of the Kanyawanga–Dede–Rapogi–Awendo road to bitumen standards will unlock economic potential in our region. Farmers and traders will finally have reliable access to markets,” Owino emphasized.
Mr. Owino underscored that these projects signal a new dawn for Nyanza, a region that has historically lagged behind in infrastructure development compared to other parts of the country.
“For many years, Nyanza has lagged behind in development due to limited infrastructure investment. What we are seeing now is a deliberate effort by the national government to correct that imbalance,” he stated.
However, the MP also used the opportunity to raise pressing concerns affecting the local economy, particularly the plight of service providers linked to Sony Sugar Company. He called on the national government to expedite the settlement of long-standing dues owed to contractors and suppliers following the leasing of the miller.
“I wish to appeal to the government to urgently settle pending dues owed to Sony Sugar service providers. These are local entrepreneurs whose businesses have suffered for years. Paying them will restore confidence and stimulate our local economy,” Owino urged.
“The revival of Sony Sugar must go hand in hand with settling historical debts. That is the only way we can rebuild trust and ensure sustainable operations,” he added.
Background
Nyanza region, once considered a political opposition stronghold, has for years cited inadequate infrastructure, limited industrial investment, and stalled public projects as key contributors to its slow economic growth. Successive administrations have faced criticism for failing to fully unlock the region’s potential despite its strategic position in agriculture, fisheries, and cross-border trade.
President Ruto’s administration has, however, adopted a more inclusive development approach, with increased budgetary allocations and flagship projects targeting historically underserved regions. The focus on roads, housing, education, and agricultural value chains in Nyanza is part of a broader national strategy to promote equitable development and economic empowerment.
The revival and stabilization of key industries such as Sony Sugar remain central to this agenda, given their critical role in supporting thousands of livelihoods in Migori County and the wider South Nyanza region.
As implementation of these projects gathers momentum, leaders and residents alike remain optimistic that sustained government commitment will not only address historical disparities but also position Nyanza as a key driver of Kenya’s socio-economic transformation.
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