Nyong’o praises Ruto-Raila deal as state invests in Kisumu

Kisumu Governor Anyang' Nyong’o has lauded the recent joint visit by President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga to Kisumu, describing it as a turning point for the lakeside city’s development and a testament to the power of political unity in unlocking progress.

The high-profile visit, which saw the commissioning and groundbreaking of several affordable housing projects and inspection of key infrastructure, drew excitement among locals who have long yearned for government attention in the region.

Speaking during a post-visit briefing in Kisumu, Governor Nyong’o said the partnership between the two leaders had inspired renewed hope across the country.

Nyong’o said the pact was about real projects on the ground, tangible investments in people’s lives, and a shared vision for Kisumu’s growth.

Among the key projects launched during the visit were the Makasembo affordable housing project, the Lake Victoria Marina housing project in Kirembe, and the groundbreaking for phase three of Makasembo housing, part of the national government’s initiative to boost access to affordable and dignified shelter.

The county government recognised Raila Odinga’s donation of five hectares of land in Kirembe to support the housing project.

 Nyong’o termed it a “profound gesture of patriotism and commitment to the people of Kisumu.”

 “This gesture is a profound testament to the former Prime Minister's unwavering commitment to the progress of Kisumu and his enduring belief that every Kenyan deserves access to decent, affordable shelter. It also signals strong support for the national government's housing agenda”. 

Nyong'o further expressed his gratitude to President Ruto for the broad portfolio of development projects his administration has initiated in Kisumu , many of which are progressing steadily toward completion. 

The projects include the tarmacking of the Mamboleo-Miwani road, a vital corridor set to boost trade and mobility within the greater Kisumu region. 

Other flagship projects include Kabonyo Fisheries and Aquaculture Training Centre of Excellence in Nyando, which is already underway. 

The Sh3 billion facility is expected to produce 28 million fingerlings annually, aiming to reverse fish stock depletion in Lake Victoria.

A new air traffic control tower at Kisumu International Airport is 80 per cent complete.

 The Sh 314 million upgrade is expected to enhance air travel capacity across Western Kenya.

Governor Nyong’o said the success of the projects relied on local collaboration, political goodwill, and citizen participation.

“ We wholeheartedly support the decision by President Ruto and Raila to work together in the interest of national unity and development”.

Nyong’o threw his weight behind the broad-based government, urging Kenyans to see the unfolding cooperation as an opportunity to heal political rifts and move the country forward.

 “We celebrate the peace, unity, and renewed sense of hope that this partnership has' inspired across the country. Let us rise above partisan politics and focus on building a country where inclusivity, development, and dignity are non-negotiable.”

He reaffirmed Kisumu’s hospitality and openness to future presidential visits, while urging both Ruto and Raila to extend their joint tours to other regions. “Together, their leadership can usher in a new era of meaningful progress and national cohesion”.