By Chris David
President William Ruto on Wednesday hosted leaders from Western Kenya at State House, Nairobi, for a high-level consultative meeting aimed at fast-tracking development initiatives in the region.
The session brought together governors, Members of Parliament, Cabinet Secretaries, and other senior government officials to deliberate on a wide range of projects critical to the socio-economic transformation of the Western region.
The meeting focused on priority areas including revitalization of key agricultural sectors—particularly sugarcane and coffee—expansion of infrastructure, enhancement of universal health coverage, and improvements in water supply and electricity access.
President Ruto emphasized his administration’s commitment to ensuring regional equity in development, noting that Western Kenya holds immense potential that must be unlocked through strategic investment and collaborative governance.
“We are determined to deliver a more equitable Kenya where every region is empowered to grow and contribute to national prosperity,” said the President.
“This meeting reflects our focus on translating policy into action and accelerating delivery on promises made to Western Kenya,” he added.
Among the headline projects discussed was the revival of the sugar sector, including Mumias and Nzoia sugar factories, which are critical to the livelihoods of thousands of farmers and workers.
The leaders also explored ways of supporting farmers through value chain development, enhanced access to inputs, and better market linkages.
Infrastructure development was another major point of discussion, with plans to improve road networks, rural electrification, and modernize local markets.
The government also reaffirmed its focus on achieving universal health coverage by investing in health facilities, personnel, and digital health services in underserved counties.
Water and energy access—vital enablers of both domestic and economic well-being—were highlighted as immediate needs, with the President promising increased budgetary support and partnerships to bridge gaps in these sectors.
The leaders expressed support for the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), aligning their priorities with the national blueprint.
They commended the President’s willingness to engage in direct dialogue and called for timely implementation and continuous follow-up.
This meeting signals renewed urgency in delivering results for Western Kenya and reflects a broader shift toward participatory development anchored in regional needs and national cohesion.