President William Ruto has rolled out a wide range of development projects across Western Kenya, targeting key sectors such as infrastructure, housing, energy, agriculture, and healthcare.
The initiatives, launched on Monday, March 16, 2026, mark the beginning of a five-day tour of the region and signal a renewed push to unlock economic potential in counties such as Kakamega, Busia, and Vihiga.
The projects, running into tens of billions of shillings, are part of the government’s broader strategy to boost regional development, improve livelihoods, and strengthen trade links within and beyond Kenya’s borders.
Infrastructure push to unlock trade and mobility
A major highlight of the tour is the rollout of road projects aimed at improving connectivity across Western Kenya. In Busia County, the President launched the construction of the 13-kilometre Nangina–Sio Port–Okados–Mundere Road at a cost of KSh860 million.
The road is expected to link key economic zones in Funyula and Budalang’i constituencies, easing movement of goods and people. Another project, the Matayos–Namwitsula Bridge–Nawesa–Shibale Road, valued at KSh545 million, is also set to enhance local transport networks.
In Vihiga County, Ruto launched the rehabilitation of the 11-kilometre Chavaki–Lusiola and Shikumu–Malinya roads at a cost of KSh953 million. Speaking during the launch, the President said improved roads will “open up local markets, support farmers and small businesses, and improve access to essential services.”
Experts note that poor road networks have historically slowed economic growth in the region, particularly for farmers who struggle to access markets.
Housing and markets to boost local economies
The government is also investing heavily in housing and market infrastructure. In Busia, Ruto launched the KSh5.5 billion Nasewa Affordable Housing Project, which will deliver 2,000 housing units.
The project is expected to complement the nearby County Aggregation and Industrial Park, creating jobs and supporting local manufacturing.
At the same time, the President laid the foundation stone for the KSh130 million Budalang’i Modern Market, which will provide improved trading spaces for more than 500 traders. In Kakamega County, similar efforts are underway, with 24 modern markets planned at a total cost of KSh4.4 billion.
These markets are designed to replace informal and poorly equipped trading centres, offering facilities such as storage, sanitation, and better working conditions for small-scale traders.
Energy and water projects to improve livelihoods
Electricity access remains a key focus, with the commissioning of the Nderema Last Mile Electrification Project in Kakamega County. The KSh12.7 million project will connect 161 households to power and is part of a wider KSh2.37 billion electrification programme in the county.
According to the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC), expanding electricity access is critical for small businesses, education, and overall quality of life.
Water access is also being addressed through the Shitoli Water Project in Ikolomani, a KSh212 million initiative expected to benefit more than 45,000 residents. The project includes rehabilitation and solarisation to ensure reliable and sustainable water supply.
Health and education investments
Healthcare and education infrastructure are also part of the government’s development agenda in the region. In Kakamega, the President officially opened the 124-bed Butere County Hospital, which is expected to improve access to medical services for thousands of residents.
Additionally, the Malava Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) was launched to expand training opportunities for healthcare workers, addressing staffing gaps in the sector.
Analysts say such investments are critical in a region where access to quality healthcare and training institutions has been limited.
Strategic projects to position region for growth
The inspection of the Kakamega Airstrip rehabilitation project underscores the government’s long-term vision for Western Kenya. Once upgraded, the airstrip is expected to enhance regional connectivity, attract investment, and support trade and tourism.
The projects are being implemented with support from both national and county governments, with leaders such as Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa, Busia Governor Paul Otuoma, and Vihiga Governor Wilberforce Otichilo backing the initiatives.
President Ruto defended the scale of the investments, saying the government has a “clear and demonstrable track record in delivering housing, health, education, roads, and other critical infrastructure.”
The bigger picture
Western Kenya has long been seen as an underdeveloped region despite its agricultural potential and strategic location near regional markets such as Uganda.
By focusing on infrastructure, energy, and value addition, the government aims to transform the region into a key economic hub. Projects such as roads, markets, and industrial parks are expected to boost trade, reduce post-harvest losses, and create employment opportunities.
However, the success of these initiatives will depend on timely implementation, proper management, and sustained investment.
As the five-day tour continues, attention will likely shift to how these projects are executed and whether they deliver the promised economic transformation for millions of residents in Western Kenya.
