President Ruto’s North Rift Tour: Mega Projects Unveiled
“The President is scheduled to embark on a two-day development tour of the North Rift region, where he will inspect and commission mega projects ranging from dams to road infrastructure,”
Cabinet Secretary for Water, Sanitation, and Irrigation, Eric Mugaa, accompanied by Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii (right), addresses the media in Eldoret ahead of President William Ruto’s two-day tour to launch and inspect multi-billion-shilling projects in the North Rift region.
Cabinet Secretary for Water, Sanitation, and Irrigation, Eric Mugaa, is spearheading a multi-agency team in the North Rift region ahead of President William Ruto’s two-day tour, starting today (Thursday). The tour aims to launch and inspect various multi-billion-shilling development projects.
The President is set to commission key infrastructure projects, including dams and irrigation initiatives, beginning in his home county of Uasin Gishu and extending to the neighboring Elgeyo Marakwet County. Speaking in Eldoret, CS Mugaa, accompanied by Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii and County Commissioner Eddy Nyale, highlighted the significance of these flagship projects.
“The President is scheduled to embark on a two-day development tour of the North Rift region, where he will inspect and commission mega projects ranging from dams to road infrastructure,” said Mugaa.
Commitment to Food Security
Mugaa disclosed the government’s allocation of Ksh 1 billion for irrigation projects targeting hardship areas in the region to address food insecurity. “The national government will spend Ksh 1 billion on implementing irrigation projects in West Pokot, Elgeyo Marakwet, and Turkana counties for the benefit of the residents,” he added.
Crackdown on Rogue Contractors
Expressing frustration over delays in completing government-funded projects, Mugaa condemned contractors who abandon their obligations, causing significant financial losses. “We have put rogue contractors on notice for delaying the completion of water and dam projects despite full funding,” he warned. Mugaa emphasized that such contractors would face arrest and prosecution to ensure government resources benefit the public.
Residents Voice Concerns
The President’s visit comes amid growing discontent among local residents over the slow pace of national government projects, despite the region’s overwhelming support for the United Democratic Alliance in the last election. During an interdenominational prayer service in Tot, Elgeyo Marakwet County, area Governor Wisley Rotich appealed to the President to prioritize fulfilling campaign promises.
“Your Excellency, we feel left out in national mega projects. I plead with you to make a commitment to implement development initiatives for the benefit of the voters,” urged Rotich.
The much-anticipated tour is expected to reassure residents of the government’s commitment to addressing their concerns and fast-tracking development in the region.
About Author
