President William Ruto unveiled a sweeping set of development projects in Ukambani on Wednesday, positioning them as both a fulfilment of his administration’s “Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda” and a strategic bid to bolster his support ahead of the 2027 elections.
Speaking at the Wote grounds, Ruto said, “Our Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda is the tide that lifts all boats. No region, and no community, is left behind. That is why we have committed KSh 1.5 billion to upgrade roads across Makueni County; strengthening connectivity and expanding access to essential services and economic opportunity. We are also investing KSh 9.3 billion in the Thwake Dam and KSh 2 billion in electricity connectivity that will reach more than 18,000 households. This comes in addition to the KSh 770 million Wote Stadium, and over KSh 11 billion directed toward affordable housing and modern student hostels. This is what we mean when we say we possess the commitment, the vision and the resources to transform Kenya into a First-World nation.”
Ruto inspected the 755-unit Wote Affordable Housing Project, long stalled since 1989, and broke ground for the 350 million shillings Wote Modern Market, part of a broader plan to build 10 new markets across Makueni. Combined with ongoing projects—including road upgrades worth 1.5 billion shillings, rural electrification reaching 18,000 households, and the 9.2 billion shillings Thwake Dam—the initiatives represent 13.5 billion shillings in development aimed at improving livelihoods and expanding economic opportunities in the region. Earlier in the day, Ruto also handed over more than 2,140 title deeds to residents of Kasikeu, addressing longstanding land disputes.
While the rollout emphasizes service delivery, its timing and location carry unmistakable political undertones. Ukambani has long been an opposition stronghold, and analysts view Ruto’s tour as an effort to broaden his appeal in the region ahead of the 2027 vote. “These projects are designed to uplift communities, but they also signal that no part of Kenya is overlooked,” said a political analyst familiar with the tour.
Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, however, dismissed suggestions of joining Ruto’s coalition. Speaking in Machakos, Kalonzo said, “Working with Ruto? Maybe another Kalonzo,” warning that his party would not be “bought or intimidated” and vowing to lead the opposition challenge in 2027. At the same time, some local lawmakers allied with Ruto continue to push for Kalonzo’s inclusion, noting the potential impact on the regional political balance.
Residents expressed cautious optimism. Traders said the Wote Modern Market would boost small-scale business opportunities, while youth groups welcomed housing projects and road upgrades. Yet water scarcity and delayed project completion remain concerns for many.
