By Anderson Ojwang
Former Foreign Affairs Minister Dr Robert Ouko is set to be honoured by the government through the construction of a Kenya School of Government in his Nyahera Village.
The institution will be named after Ouko, who was murdered in 1990, and whose remains were discovered by a herder in Got Alila of Muhoroni Sub-county.
Similarly, President Ruto also agreed to support the elevation of Ramogi Institute of Advanced Technology (RIAT College) into a university, expanding access to higher education.
Riat Institute of Advanced Technology was established in 1971 through mobilisation of funds from the community, which were used to set up the initial infrastructure.
Goodies in Nyong’o’s basket included the gazetting of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital as a Level 6 Hospital, a move that will significantly enhance healthcare services for the people.
The allocation of Sh 1.3 billion towards the construction of the Kabonyo Kanyagwal Aquaculture Fisheries Project, a game-changer for the local economy and food security.
Fast-tracking the completion of critical infrastructure projects, including the Mamboleo–Miwani Road, Awasi–Katito Road, and Holo–Lela Road, which will improve connectivity and trade.
The setting aside of Sh 700 million to boost rice farming in Nyando Sub-county, empowering farmers and strengthening the agricultural backbone.
The approval of the construction of additional affordable housing at Kanyakwar, ensuring more Kisumu residents have access to decent homes.
Progressing the Naivasha–Malaba Standard Gauge Railway through Kisumu, positioning the county as a key logistical hub.
Commitment of Sh 800 million towards the construction of a ferry at Kenya Shipyard Limited – Kisumu, enhancing lake transport and economic activities.
Supporting the construction of the Robert Ouko Kenya School of Government in Nyahera, a vital institution for capacity building.
Allocation of funds for the equipping of the modern Kisumu County Assembly, bolstering legislative capacity.
Provision of Sh 900 million for Last Mile Connectivity, bringing electricity to more households across the county.
Setting aside Sh 1.5 billion for miscellaneous spur roads, improving accessibility within communities.
Commitment of Sh 800 million towards the construction of Moi Stadium, a significant boost for sports and talent development.
Construction of five modern markets across the county, each valued at Sh 250 million to Sh 350 million. Completion of the Kisumu Air Control Tower, provision of Sh 500 million for the Kisumu Special Economic Zone, and the construction of the Data Surveillance Centre of Lake Victoria.
Ruto said peace and stability were key to the development and prosperity of Kenya and that he would continue to harness the country’s diversity.
“We are looking at the expansion of Kisumu County. We are now working on a new master plan for Kisumu County.
We have already completed a new air control facility, which cost the Kenya Government about Sh 3 billion, and the next time I am in Kisumu, I am going to launch it officially. It is done. We are looking at Kisumu as one of the hubs for the region.
We must enhance our working together. I have made the decision that nobody must be out for anybody to be in. We have enough as a nation to share, and this is why we formed a broad-based government for inclusivity,” he said.
Nyong’o wrote on his X handle:
“Today marks a monumental day for Kisumu County! I had the immense privilege of leading a dedicated delegation comprising our Members of Parliament, County Executives, esteemed clergy, and professionals to State House for a crucial meeting with H.E. President William Samoei Ruto.
Our discussions centred entirely on accelerating the development agenda for Kisumu, and I’m thrilled to share the incredible outcomes.
I extend my deepest gratitude to President Ruto for his unwavering commitment and positive reception to our proposals. His dedication to Kisumu’s growth was evident through a series of transformative pledges that will undoubtedly reshape our county’s future.”
Kisumu West MP Rosa Buyu thanked the President for considering honouring Dr Ouko with a facility, which she termed a milestone.
“When we had a conversation, you committed that you are going to put up a Dr Ouko Kenya School of Government in his home ground in Nyahera.
We have had a discussion with the Governor, and surprisingly, he was of the same thought. On Saturday a team of architects and engineers will be in Nyahera to conduct a feasibility assessment of the area. I want to thank you for putting in Sh 200 million in that project,” she said.
Chairman of the Luo Council of Elders, Mzee Odungi Randa, said the community will support the President and that he has demonstrated his commitment to work with the people of the lake.
“President Ruto has walked well with us. If he continues this way and works well with former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, we will support him in his agenda,” he said.
Edited by Sandra Blessing
