Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Performance and Delivery Management, Eliud Owalo, has outlined key projects that President William Ruto’s government has lined up for implementation in the Nyanza and Kisii regions.
According to Owalo, these projects are set to benefit the Nyanza region with a strategic focus on agriculture, infrastructure, and industrial development.
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“In Nyanza, we have an enabling environment right now for purposes of development. We want to zero in on certain integral sectors and projects that would rejuvenate the economy of the Nyanza region and the entire Lake region,” Owalo said.
Government Key Projects in Nyanza
The key project will be the revitalization of the Sugar Industry in the county. The government plans to lease sugar mills to the private sector in order to have capital to restore operations and optimize production in the sugar industry.
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Additionally, Lake Victoria Ring Road will be now prioritized for completion. The road will enhance trade, commerce, and entrepreneurship across Nyanza and beyond.
Another key project will be revitalization of the Cotton Industry by restoring cotton ginneries and establish a cotton processing network. The initiative aims to transform raw cotton into finished products, supporting local industries and creating jobs.
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At the same time Kisumu International Airport shall be developed into a key hub for exporting agricultural produce by boosting air cargo capabilities.
The Koru-Soin Dam will be fully operational, which will address flooding issues in Nyando and provide essential water supplies to households across Nyanza. It will also support the 60 MW Sondu-Miriu hydroelectric plant located in Kisumu County.
Lastly, the government seeks to solidify mineral regulatory framework that will benefit local communities. Nyanza is rich in mineral resources, including gold in Macalder and Sakwa, and iron ore in Homa Bay and Siaya counties.
Also Read: Govt Outlines 10 Major Projects Set for Implementation in Nyanza
Kisii County Projects
Magwagwa Multipurpose Dam, located on the Sondu River in Nyamira County, is set to begin construction in 2029 and become operational by 2032, generating 120 MW of electricity.
The Lake Basin Development Authority, in collaboration with Xago Africa, is leading this initiative.
Additionally, Soapstone Factory in Kisii will be established in order to tap into its rich raw material base for soapstone.
Moreover, the government is exploring Agricultural Product Processing in Greater Kisii in order to establish processing factories for local agricultural products such as tea, coffee, avocado, and bananas, adding value to these products and opening new markets.
Also Read: Ruto Vows to Fulfil Raila Wishes After Signing MoU [FULL SPEECH]
Other projects
A major potato processing factory is being pursued, that will be located in Kuria in the bid to tap into the potential of potato farming in the region.
The Getonganya Sweet Potato Processing Factory in Kuria West will also be fully operationalized to increase its daily production capacity.
Speaking in Asembo, Owalo said that the Kenya Kwanza administration is on track in delivering development projects and programs.
“Based on our review and the scorecard of the current administration, I want to assure Kenyans that we are making significant progress in implementing key development projects,” he noted.
Furthermore, he stated that through reforms, the government is working to foster a private-sector mindset within the public service to improve performance and service delivery.
“One of the biggest problems that we have been having in Kenya is a wrong culture. You may have a good strategy, but if culture in those organizations is not correct, then you cannot get the results. Historically, the performance of most parastatals has been wanting because of wrong culture,” Owalo said.
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