By Andrew Mbuva
President William Ruto has assured residents of the Lower Eastern region that they will not be left behind in national development.
Speaking during a meeting with more than 1,500 professionals and grassroots leaders from Machakos, Makueni, and Kitui counties at State House, Nairobi, the President emphasized that Ukambani deserves an equal share of national resources.
“I will not allow Ukambani to be left behind. We shall move together as one nation,” he said.
Key religious leaders present included Catholic Bishop of Machakos Norman King’oo Wambua, AIC Presiding Bishop Abraham Mulwa, and Archbishop Timothy Ndambuki of the Africa Brotherhood Church.
Highlighting development projects, the President noted significant progress under the Affordable Housing Program, with 166 units in Kitui, 365 in Wote, 900 in Makindu, and 5,000 in Mavoko.
He emphasized that the housing initiative, now with over 150,000 units under construction nationwide, is employing over 200,000 youth and will eliminate slums in the long term.
Ruto criticized past governments for failing to implement the housing agenda due to lack of decisive leadership.
“Kenya cannot develop on convenient political decisions. I will see through this housing program, whatever the consequences,” he stated.
In infrastructure, KSh5.6 billion has been allocated to connect over 60,000 households in the three counties to electricity. An additional KSh1.5 billion will go toward compensating those affected by the Kibwezi-Kitui road project.
The President also announced the processing of 40,000 title deeds for local residents and the allocation of KSh6 billion to complete the Thwake Multipurpose Dam, which will enhance water supply in the region.
On agriculture, 6,000 tons of cotton seed have been distributed to farmers to help revive the cotton sector.
President Ruto urged leaders to encourage residents to enroll with the Social Health Authority (SHA), noting low registration rates: 35% in Machakos, 28% in Makueni, and 22% in Kitui.
He assured the public that SHA is functional and contributing positively to healthcare, including ensuring drug supplies through direct Kemsa deliveries to hospitals.
Looking ahead, the President said he will commission a KSh40 billion clinker manufacturing plant in Kitui County later in the year.
The meeting was also attended by Labour CS Alfred Mutua, National Security Advisor Monica Juma, Maendeleo ya Wanawake Chair Rahab Mwikali, MPs, MCAs, and county assembly speakers Kevin Katisya (Kitui) and Ann Kiusya (Machakos), among other leaders.
