Ruto Promises Sh2.5 Billion in New Markets for Siaya as Orengo-Led Delegation Visits State House
President William Ruto has unveiled a multi-billion shilling development plan for Siaya County, pledging to construct 16 modern markets valued at Sh2.5 billion. The announcement came during a high-profile meeting with Siaya leaders and business people at State House Nairobi, led by Governor James Orengo.
The President said the government would also inject Sh1.6 billion into a last-mile electricity programme aimed at connecting 16,000 households in the county. An additional Sh500 million is being sought to expand electricity access to 5,000 more homes.
Ruto further outlined a Sh1 billion investment into the county’s blue economy. This includes Sh600 million for the development of Usenge Pier and related port infrastructure, and Sh400 million for a new fish market.
“We are committed to inclusive development. Every part of Kenya deserves equal attention,” said Ruto. “Our plan for Siaya is not political—it is about economic transformation.”
In agriculture, the President said Siaya would benefit from the revival of the cotton industry, noting that Kenya currently exports KSh65 billion worth of garments to the U.S. annually but imports most of the raw materials used.
To reduce dependency, Ruto revealed that the African Export-Import Bank (Afriexim) would inject KSh20 billion into the sector. A strategic investor has also been identified to breathe life into the stalled Rivatex East Africa Ltd factory in Eldoret.
On education, Ruto said the government would fast-track the expansion of Odera Akang’o University through land acquisition and the completion of stalled projects at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology.
In a notable show of political warmth, Ruto publicly acknowledged ODM leader Raila Odinga for embracing cooperation with his administration. “Baba has always put the country’s interests first in moments of national difficulty,” said the President.
The event marked a significant moment in the evolving relationship between Ruto and Orengo. Just weeks ago, the Siaya Governor had sharply criticized the Kenya Kwanza administration and rejected any political alliances with UDA.
“I cannot be a praise singer. We fought for a democratic Constitution where people should speak freely,” Orengo had declared at a public event in April.
However, in a letter dated April 17, Orengo had requested a meeting with the President to discuss development plans for Siaya, signaling a shift in tone. “The purpose of the meeting is to engage you on key development matters affecting the county and to explore collaborative pathways through which the national and county governments can work together,” the letter stated.
Present at the State House meeting were Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi, Senator Oburu Oginga, MPs, MCAs, clergy, and other community leaders from Siaya.
The new promises now put the spotlight on implementation—and whether political collaboration will finally deliver results for Siaya residents long starved of large-scale development.
In other news:Ruto Meets Orengo, Siaya Leaders at State House Amid Political Realignments
Ruto Promises Sh2.5 Billion in New Markets for Siaya as Orengo-Led Delegation Visits State House