Governor Nyong’o Attends State House Talks as Ruto Deepens Luo Nyanza Engagement

President William Ruto has recently escalated his engagements with leaders from the Luo Nyanza region.

This signals a strategic pivot as Kenya approaches the 2027 general election. The latest move came on June 18, when Ruto hosted Kisumu County leaders, led by Governor Anyang' Nyong'o, at State House. This meeting follows closely on the heels of a similar engagement earlier this month with leaders from Siaya County, where significant development pledges were announced. These interactions underscore a deliberate recalibration of President Ruto's political strategy, as he appears to be broadening his base of support beyond traditional strongholds. 

This move is particularly noteworthy amid reported tensions between Ruto and his deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, suggesting a potential realignment of political alliances. During the June 6 meeting with Siaya leaders, Ruto committed substantial funds towards regional development. A key focus is the blue economy, with Sh1 billion earmarked for infrastructure projects. Specifically, Sh600 million is slated for Usenge Pier and associated port facilities, while an additional Sh400 million will be directed towards a fish market. 

Furthermore, the government has pledged Sh2.5 billion to construct 16 markets across Siaya County and has allocated Sh1.6 billion for an electricity expansion project expected to connect 16,000 households. Efforts are also underway to secure an additional Sh500 million to extend electricity access to another 5,000 homes. The emphasis on development initiatives forms a core component of Ruto's strategy to strengthen ties with Luo Nyanza, a region historically aligned with opposition leader Raila Odinga. 

These investments, coupled with high-profile visits, aim to appeal to the region through tangible projects and improvements. This approach marks a departure from previous periods of strained relations between Luo Nyanza leaders and the national government, particularly concerning matters of devolution and governance. Governor Nyong'o, a prominent figure within the ODM party, has previously voiced concerns about the central government's policies. 

In April, he criticised the administration for allegedly undermining devolution by retaining functions that should fall under county jurisdiction, especially in road infrastructure. Nyong'o argued that agencies such as the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) and the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KERRA) were redundant if devolution was fully implemented effectively.

However, Nyong'o's tone shifted following Ruto's visit to Kisumu ahead of Madaraka Day. He lauded the engagements as a "turning point" for regional development, expressing optimism about the renewed collaboration between county and national governments. Ruto's visit to Kisumu included the unveiling of several key projects, such as the Makasembo affordable housing initiative and the Lake Victoria Marina housing development in Kirembe. 

Groundbreaking work for the next phase of the Makasembo project was also initiated. These projects align with the national government's broader push to expand access to dignified and affordable housing across the country.

In a notable gesture, Raila Odinga donated five hectares of land in Kirembe to support the housing initiative, reinforcing his commitment to Kisumu's growth and development. Nyong'o praised the move, describing it as a testament to Odinga's dedication to improving living conditions for Kenyans and acknowledging its alignment with government priorities in the housing sector.