President William Ruto has unveiled a massive Sh110 billion investment plan targeting key development sectors across the Ukambani region. Speaking at the Kitui State Lodge at the close of his four-day tour, the President described the allocation as the largest investment any government has ever committed to Kitui, Machakos, and Makueni counties.
According to President Ruto, Sh64 billion has been earmarked for transformative projects including 44,000 affordable housing units, 39 modern markets, and 15,000-bed student hostels. He said the government’s housing agenda is not only reshaping Kenya’s landscape but also creating jobs and improving living standards.
The President was accompanied by top government officials, including Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua, and lawmakers from the region.
As part of infrastructure development, the government is pumping Sh30 billion into upgrading 600 kilometres of roads in the first phase. Another Sh6.7 billion will connect 51,000 households to electricity within six months, significantly boosting productivity and access to essential services.
Water scarcity remains a persistent concern in Ukambani, and the President highlighted major progress. The Thwake Multipurpose Dam, funded by the African Development Bank, is nearing completion at a cost of Sh9.6 billion. In Kitui, the Umaa Dam is expected to be completed next year at Sh230 million, while Sh700 million has been set aside to compensate residents affected by the Muwongoni Dam in Machakos.
The President also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the proposed High Grand Falls Dam, a major project straddling Kitui and Tharaka-Nithi counties.
Ruto announced plans to open a Sh40 billion clinker and cement factory in Mwingi early next year, a development expected to create over 5,000 jobs. Additionally, the government will build an Sh800 million stadium in Machakos and complete the Enziu Bridge in Mwingi at a cost of Sh230 million.
During his tour, Ruto issued 45,000 title deeds and launched several road projects, including the Emali-Matiliku, Kamuw’ongo-Kandwia, and Kivandini-Miseleni roads.
Calling for unity and development-focused politics, President Ruto urged the region’s youth to apply for the NYOTA programme, which offers Sh50,000 business grants.
