ODM leader Raila Odinga’s Nyanza
backyard is reaping the benefits of the
broad-based deal that is reshaping
the region’s political and economic
landscape.
Long known to be anti-establishment, political rewards are now flowing as the government implements 66
projects in Nyanza counties of Siaya,
Migori, Homa Bay and Kisumu.
According to a breakdown seen by
the Star, Homa Bay has the highest
number of projects at 23, followed
by Siaya with 17, Kisumu, 15, and
Migori, 11.
The projects range from roads, affordable housing, water, airport upgrade, fish landing sites and training
centres to last mile connectivity.
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga yesterday confirmed the region
would witness additional funding for
roads as well as other infrastructure.
“Coming up ahead of Madaraka
Day. Major roads coming up into
Homa Bay town. Dualling of the
main highway through Homa Bay,
several urban roads, rural roads and
many more, ” Wanga posted on her
social media platforms.
“Thanking President William
Ruto, CS Mbadi, Kaluma, Interior
PS Raymond Omollo for your unity
of purpose.”
For years, political tensions had
slowed progress in the opposition
zones, Nyanza included, with accusations of favouritism in resource
allocations.
Pundits, however, argue the projects are part of President William
Ruto’s mission to woo Raila bases
in the face of the rebelling Mt Kenya.
In the aftermath of the last general
elections, when Ruto secured a hardfought victory, his focus turned to
building bridges with communities
that had previously aligned with his
political rivals.
By winning over sections of Raila’s
support base, Ruto aims to expand
his electoral appeal beyond his traditional Rift Valley and Mt Kenya
strongholds.
Analysts suggest that if the benefits
continue to flow into Raila’s backyard, the political dynamics of the
next election could be significantly
altered.
Road networks that had stalled are
being revived, signalling a policy shift
in the administration’s approach to
the region.
Among the first projects being imboleo junction – Miwani – Chemelil
– Muhoroni – Kipsitet Road, which
is at 15 per cent.
In Homa Bay, the upgrading to
bitumen standards of Mbita-Sindo-Kiabuya-sori road is underway,
with overall status at 19.26 per cent.
