WESTERN REGION, KENYA: President William Ruto is set to begin a comprehensive development tour of the Western Kenya region starting Monday, March 16, 2026.
The four-day itinerary, spanning Busia, Kakamega, Vihiga, and Bungoma counties, underscores the administration’s commitment to the “Bottom-Up” Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) through significant investments in infrastructure, energy, and trade.
The tour, concluding on Thursday, March 19, focuses on launching high-impact projects designed to stimulate local economies and improve the quality of life for residents in the former Western Province.
Day 1: Laying the Groundwork in Busia, Kakamega, and Vihiga
The president will kick off his visit on Monday, March 16, in Budalangi, Busia County. Key highlights of the first day include:
Infrastructure: Groundbreaking for the Mundere Okando-Sio Port-Nangina Road and the Matayos-Namusira-Nasewa Road.
Trade: Laying the foundation stones for the Economic Stimulus Programme (ESP) markets in Budalangi and Malaha.
Energy & Water: Commissioning of rural electrification projects in Nderema and Malaa centres (Kakamega), followed by an inspection of the Shitoli Water Project in Ikolomani.
Day 2: Focus on Agriculture, Education, and Housing
On Tuesday, March 17, the tour moves toward the slopes of Mt Elgon and into the heart of Kakamega:
Bungoma County: The President will commission school buildings at Toroso Primary and launch the Cheptais Strategic Market. Significant water infrastructure will also be addressed with the groundbreaking of the Chesikaki Water Supply Project.
Affordable Housing: In the afternoon, the focus shifts to urban development in Kakamega Town (Lurambi), where the President will preside over the foundation laying and commissioning of Affordable Housing Program (AHP) units.
Day 3: Sports, Health, and Social Services
Wednesday, March 18, will see a heavy concentration of activity in Busia and Bungoma, highlighting social amenities and healthcare.
Strengthening the Region’s Economy
This tour is viewed by many as a strategic move to consolidate development gains in Western Kenya. By focusing on last-mile connectivity, both in water and electricity, and the construction of modern markets, the government aims to reduce the cost of doing business for “mama mbogas” and small-scale traders.
The inclusion of multiple affordable housing projects also signals a push to create construction jobs for local youth while addressing the housing deficit in emerging urban centres like Busia and Kakamega.
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