TUKO.co.ke journalist Ivan Mboto has over three years of experience reporting on politics and current affairs in Kenya

President William Ruto kicked off his development tour of the Mt. Kenya region, making stops in Laikipia and Nyeri counties to launch infrastructure projects.

Addressing a gathering in Nyeri, Ruto fondly recalled the overwhelming support he received from the region during the 2022 General Election. He assured the residents that he had not forgotten their contribution to his presidency and that their interests remain a priority.

"Listen, people of Nyeri. You gave me your votes out of your own free will, and it is those votes that helped form this government. Do you think I am foolish enough to forget the trust you placed in me?" Ruto posed.

The president emphasised that he personally oversees the region’s development to ensure that key projects are implemented as promised.

"In this government, the first person to be asked about the affairs of this region is me. Because you honoured me with your votes, I will ensure that your roads are built, electricity is connected, water is supplied, markets are constructed, and your children get education. The respect you gave me, I must return," he pledged.

In what seemed to be a veiled response to his former deputy Rigathi Gachagua over claims that he had sidelined the region, Ruto warned residents against falling for divisive politics.

"I want to tell you that in Kenya, there will no longer be politics of division, hatred, or the marginalisation of other communities. We are coming together to take our nation forward," he asserted.

The head of state further reassured Nyeri residents that his administration remains closely connected to the region and going forward, he would visit the region more frequently.

"There is still a lot to be done—roads, hospitals, electricity, water, and markets. And all of this work, you have empowered me to deliver," he reiterated.

During his visit to Nyeri, Ruto launched several projects aimed at improving infrastructure and living standards in the county. He flagged off the Last Mile connectivity programme worth KSh 850 million, which is set to connect 10,000 households to electricity.

Additionally, he inaugurated a newly constructed one-storey, 12-classroom tuition block at Narumoru Township Primary School and assessed the ongoing development of the Narumoru market, which is expected to be completed within a month.

In Laikipia county, the president laid the foundation for the construction of 10 new classrooms at Nanyuki DEB Primary and Junior Secondary School. He also inspected the KSh 350 million Nanyuki modern market and toured the Nanyuki affordable housing project.

Further, Ruto flagged off another phase of the Last Mile connectivity programme in Ng’arachi, pledging a KSh 1.12 billion investment to connect over 9,000 households to electricity in Laikipia.

To support local education and economic activities, he also handed over a school bus to Dr. Wachira Secondary School in Kiamariga and delivered car wash machines to boda boda operators in the county.

Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, a close ally of former deputy president Gachagua, warmly received Ruto in Kieni, praising his allocation of over KSh 850 million for local projects.

He noted the region has long suffered from underdevelopment and needs urgent investment. Kahiga highlighted funding challenges in road construction and lauded Ruto for upgrading Naromoru Hospital.

Reaffirming his support for Ruto, Kahiga dismissed claims the president was unwelcome in Nyeri. He urged him to visit frequently and continue implementing development projects.

Source: TUKO.co.ke