President William Ruto on Sunday stepped up his development tour of Nyanza, announcing a Sh5 billion allocation to upgrade roads in Kisumu County in a move that underscores both his economic agenda and growing political outreach in the region.
During a visit to Kisumu Town West Constituency, the President flagged off the construction of the 12-kilometre Holo–Lela road at a cost of Sh950 million, saying the project would improve connectivity and open up the area for trade and investment.
“We have allocated Sh5 billion this financial year to upgrade and expand the road network in Kisumu County, enhancing connectivity and supporting economic growth,” Ruto said.
He also inspected the ongoing construction of the Holo Modern Market, a Sh70 million project expected to provide traders with improved working conditions and boost small-scale businesses.
The President’s tour of Kisumu, a region that has traditionally supported opposition leaders, reflects a sustained effort by his administration to extend its development footprint beyond its political strongholds.
Government officials accompanying him said the road projects are part of a wider plan to link rural producers to urban markets, reduce transport costs and stimulate local economies.
However, the visit comes against a backdrop of heightened political activity, with critics questioning whether the projects are being used to consolidate support ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has previously faulted the government’s approach, arguing that infrastructure investments should be matched with measures to ease the cost of living.
“Development must speak to the realities facing Kenyans, not just the commissioning of projects,” Sifuna said in an earlier statement.
But the President defended his administration’s focus, saying improved infrastructure remains key to unlocking economic opportunities and creating jobs.
Analysts say the increased frequency of the President’s tours in opposition-leaning regions signals a broader strategy to reshape political alliances while projecting delivery on campaign promises.
