President William Ruto’s ongoing North Rift development tour is putting roads, irrigation, technical education, electricity and trading facilities at the centre of the region’s development agenda.
The tour covers Nandi, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, Baringo, West Pokot and Trans Nzoia counties ahead of Mashujaa Day celebrations on October 20. Uasin Gishu, Nandi and Elgeyo Marakwet will co-host the national celebrations.
Among the projects already commissioned is the Kenya School of Technical and Vocational Education and Training Moiben Campus in Uasin Gishu County. Opened on October 12, the campus marks the institution’s first expansion outside Nairobi.The facility will train instructors who prepare young Kenyans for employment and entrepreneurship through technical education.
Agriculture received a boost through the commissioning of the Ziwa 2 Earth Dam Irrigation Project in Soy Constituency. The scheme is expected to bring 500 acres under irrigation, helping farmers reduce their dependence on seasonal rainfall.
Electricity access also featured prominently. During the Moiben visit, Ruto flagged off a KSh510.5 million Last Mile Electricity Connectivity Project targeting 6,429 households. The launch begins the process of extending connections to the targeted homes.
On October 13, the President visited Kapyego in Elgeyo Marakwet County. The day’s programme included the Kipkuldul–Kapyego–Kamalei road, a water project and groundbreaking for an Economic Stimulus Programme market. These engagements target transport, water access and better facilities for local traders.
Further projects remain scheduled for the coming days. In West Pokot, the published itinerary lists the launch of the Konyao–Kiwawa–Alale road. In Trans Nzoia, Ruto is expected to launch the Kiminini–Mitoto–Ndalu–Brigadier road and commission Kiminini Comprehensive School.
Upcoming engagements in Baringo include KMTC facilities in Eldama Ravine and laying the foundation stone for Kabarnet University College. In Iten, the programme includes commissioning the KMTC and fresh produce market, alongside inspections of housing and sports facilities.
Eldoret is also lined up for the commissioning of the Pioneer Affordable Housing Project, Kapseret Market and 64 Champions Modern Market. For residents, the lasting value will depend on these investments becoming reliable services.
