Kisumu County Commissioner (CC) Benson Leparmorijo has announced that the region is among the largest beneficiaries of the Broad-Based Government (BBG) initiative.
Leparmorijo highlighted that the BBG spearheaded by President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga has brought unprecedented peace to the region, fostering an ideal environment for accelerated development.
He made the remarks on Thursday at Apondo Primary School when he presided over the installation ceremony of the newly appointed Chief Joshua Omore of Wawidhi Location in Nyando Sub-County.
The CC stressed that the national government has committed billions of shillings to critical projects aimed at boosting the local economy.
The projects, which include building modern markets, road infrastructure, and development within the blue economy, are expected to create a profound impact.
“For the first time, Kisumu remained safe and peaceful during the last two protests,” Leparmorijo said, adding, “God’s hand touched our leaders and the youth to promote peace, thus enhancing local development.”
He applauded the two leaders for offering Kenyans good political direction that subsequently unlocked development projects in the region.
Leparmorijo added, “President Ruto and Odinga agreed to set aside political differences to prioritize national unity and development.”
The administrator said tarmacking of the 63-kilometre Mamboleo–Miwani–Kipsitet Road at a cost of Sh4.9 billion is set to significantly transform the economy of the county.
Another flagship project, he added, is the construction of the Kabonyo-Kanyagwal Fisheries and Aquaculture Training Centre of Excellence. The phase 1 of the project is valued at Sh1.7 billion.
The construction of the Maritime Rescue and Coordination Centre at a cost of Sh.3 billion, Leparmorijo said, is set to revolutionize safety for Lake Victoria’s transport and fishing communities.
He said the new Airport traffic control tower at the Kisumu International Airport, which cost over Sh300 million, will enhance air travel capacity and efficiency across Western Kenya.
The national government, through the Affordable Housing Programme, also unveiled over 1,600 housing units at the Lumumba Estate under an affordable housing project estimated to cost Sh5.2 billion.
Leparmorijo added that the Kisian Economic Stimulus Program (ESP) markets in Kisian and Muhoroni seek to provide local traders and farmers with a modern and organised space to do business.
The CC at the same time confirmed that contractors are already on-site for most of the projects, with completion timelines progressing as planned.
“These developments would not be possible without peace. It is essential for leaders and communities to continue safeguarding peace for sustainable development,” he emphasised.
By Robert Ojwang’
