President William Ruto has assured counties in the former Western Kenya region of his administration’s support, following a passionate appeal from Bungoma Governor Ken Lusaka.
Speaking during the inaugural Kakamega International Investment Conference (KAIICO) 2024 at Masinde Muliro University on March 20, Dr Ruto said that his administration will support the counties through investments in infrastructure among others.
“We will support investments in counties — through the upgrading of roads, establishment of new transmission lines to guarantee reliable power supply and support the fight against corruption and wastage,” the president said.
This followed an appeal by Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka for the allocation of additional funds to bolster infrastructural development in the Lake Region Economic Bloc Counties (LREB).
Speaking on behalf of the LREB and the Council of Governors (CoG) at the conference Governor Lusaka emphasised the need for a partnership between the national government and counties to achieve the fruits of devolution, thereby fostering grassroots growth and development.
“It is imperative for us, as county leaders within this regional bloc, to strengthen our collaboration with the national government to advance infrastructural and socio-economic development,” noted Lusaka.
On grassroots development, Lusaka argued: “As counties strategically align their development plans, it is crucial that we reinforce our commitment to devolution for socio-economic empowerment.”
Acknowledging the economic progress achieved by LREB Counties in agriculture, health, infrastructure, and the blue economy, the CoG Agriculture chair hailed recent investment forums as instrumental in attracting additional resources for development.
“Our strategic plan for 2022-2027 aims to enhance the vibrancy of the bloc through targeted action plans to realize our mission,” Lusaka added.
The event was hosted by Kakamega Governor Fernandez Barasa and attended by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Governors Dr. Wilber Ottichilo of Vihiga, and Dr. Paul Otuoma of Busia among other dignitaries.