Ruto Hits Opposition As He Unveils Key Road Project In Busia
Politics Updated: 18 March 2026 21:12 EAT
President William Samoei Ruto in Kimilili, Bungoma County when he laid the foundation stone for the Affordable Housing Project
President William Samoei Ruto on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, continued his development tour of Western Kenya with a focus on Busia County, where he presided over the launch of major infrastructure projects.
The Head of State officiated the groundbreaking for the construction of the Matayos–Nangina and Nangina–Sio Port–Mumbaka roads in Matayos Constituency, a project valued at approximately KSh773 million.
The road project is designed to enhance connectivity to Sio Port and surrounding trading centres, with the government positioning it as a key intervention to facilitate cross-border trade with neighbouring Uganda.
Ruto said the investment in road infrastructure is part of a broader national plan to unlock economic potential in border counties by improving the movement of goods and services.
He noted that improved transport networks would directly benefit farmers, small-scale traders and transport operators by reducing costs and travel time.
During the event, the President emphasised that the government remains committed to implementing projects that support grassroots economic growth under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.
He stated that infrastructure development, including roads, electricity and markets, is central to stimulating local economies and creating employment opportunities.
Ruto also used the platform to defend his administration’s track record, maintaining that ongoing projects across Western Kenya demonstrate tangible progress in delivering campaign promises.
On the political front, the President criticised sections of the opposition, accusing them of lacking a clear development agenda and focusing on rhetoric instead of practical solutions.
He argued that leadership should be centred on delivering services and improving livelihoods rather than engaging in divisive politics.
The President was accompanied by a section of leaders from the Western region, including national and local government officials who have been part of the multi-county tour.
The Busia visit forms part of a wider itinerary covering Kakamega, Bungoma and Vihiga counties, where the government is rolling out projects in infrastructure, housing, electrification and trade facilities.
Officials indicated that additional programmes under the Last Mile Connectivity initiative are ongoing in the region, targeting increased electricity access for households and small businesses.
The Western Kenya tour is expected to continue with further launches and inspections as the government accelerates implementation of development projects across the region.
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FELIX MAKONA
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