Ruto Woos Luo Nyanza With Billions Ahead Of 2027

NAIROBI, Kenya Jan 30 – Kisumu is emerging as one of the biggest winners of large-scale government development projects after President William Ruto announced multi-billion-shilling investments in housing, healthcare, transport and youth empowerment during his latest tour of the city.

Speaking to a huge crowd in Kisumu, President Ruto unveiled a series of projects that he said would transform the lakeside city into a major economic and development hub.

The announcements come as the President intensifies his visits to the wider Nyanza region, a move widely seen as part of efforts to win local support ahead of the 2027 General Election, where he is seeking re-election.

Among the key projects is the construction of 14,000 affordable housing units across Kisumu County, with 2,000 units already underway in Kanyakwar.

President Ruto said the housing programme is not just about shelter but also job creation, noting that many young people are already earning from the construction works.

The President also announced the construction of 20 new modern markets and 200-bed hostels for youths, aimed at boosting small businesses and supporting young people working and studying in the city.

In matters health, President Ruto revealed that the government will spend Sh3 billion to upgrade Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital to a level-six facility.

Once complete, the hospital will offer advanced treatment similar to Kenyatta National Hospital, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, and other top referral hospitals in the country.

“This hospital will serve not just Kisumu, but the entire region,” Ruto said, adding that the upgrade will reduce the need for patients to travel to Nairobi or Eldoret for specialised care.

Sports infrastructure is also set for a facelift, with the President announcing Sh950 million for the construction of a new modern stadium at Moi Stadium, Kisumu.

“The facility will be ready to host national celebrations and major sporting events, starting with this year’s Jamhuri Day celebrations,” President Ruto said.

On transport, President Ruto confirmed plans to extend the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Naivasha to Kisumu and onward to Malaba, linking Kenya to Uganda and boosting regional trade.

He said he will return to Kisumu later this month to officially launch the railway extension works.

The President also announced Sh450 million in grants for youth businesses, urging young people to organise themselves and take advantage of the funding to grow enterprises and fight poverty.