By Hassan Wekesa - Editor
Kenya, 12 November 2025 – President William Ruto has kicked off a high-profile development tour in Kenya's Ukambani region, launching a series of infrastructure projects aimed at boosting rural economies and addressing long-standing grievances.
The visit, which began on Wednesday in Makueni County, comes amid intensifying efforts by the Kenya Kwanza administration to court opposition heavyweight, former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka, as the 2027 presidential elections loom.
In Makueni, one of the three counties comprising Ukambani alongside Machakos and Kitui, President Ruto focused on key initiatives to enhance connectivity and land security.
He inspected the affordable housing programme in Wote.
The head of state launched the construction of the Kasikeu and Mikuyuni Bridges, along with their approach roads, marking a significant step towards improving transport links in the region.
The president also commissioned the completed phases of these bridges and roads, underscoring the government's commitment to rapid implementation.
Further highlighting the tour's emphasis on land reforms, Dr Ruto issued title deeds to residents in Kasikeu and Emali areas.
In Kasikeu alone, 2,140 deeds were distributed, resolving protracted land ownership disputes that have plagued communities for decades.
Additionally, he launched the Emali-Ukia Road in Kibwezi West, a project expected to facilitate trade and agricultural access in the county.
Speaking during the events, President Ruto emphasised the transformative potential of these developments.
"We are implementing infrastructure development projects that meet the immediate needs of our citizens, unlocking the economic potential of our rural communities, and driving inclusive growth from the bottom up," he said.
"Our goal is to ensure that every part of our country, including Makueni County where development has lagged behind for far too long, is not left behind as we work to transform Kenya into a prosperous nation."
He specifically noted the commissioning of the Kasikeu and Mikuyuni Bridges as a catalyst for Makueni's economic revival.
The Ukambani region remains a political bastion for Wiper Patritic Front Leader - Musyoka - who now anchors the United Opposition alliance.
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This coalition includes notable figures such as impeached former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, ex-Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i, former Defence CS Eugene Wamalwa, People Liberation Party Leader Martha Karua, and ex-Attorney General Justin Muturi.
Musyoka's influence in the area has made it a focal point for political manoeuvring.
Ruto's administration has been actively wooing Musyoka to defect to the Kenya Kwanza fold.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki recently appealed to him directly, stating: "You are a gentleman and you should not be on the side that throws barbs at us instead of focusing on development."
This overture reflects the government's strategy to consolidate support in opposition strongholds, potentially fracturing the united front against Ruto's policies.
And on Wednesday, Prof Kindiki urged residents of Makueni to fully support Dr Ruto for the second term.
"I urge you to be development focused Kenyans and support the government. All those other countries that you, see, were built by citizens," Prof Kindiki said.
Other leaders who were present included Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr, Lands CS Alice Wahome, Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse, Labour CS Alfred Mutua among many others.
Analysts suggest the tour is as much about optics as it is about delivery, with infrastructure pledges serving as a bridge to political reconciliation.
Residents in Makueni showed up to witness the commissioning of the projects, citing improved roads as vital for market access.
However, critics in the opposition argue that such visits are electioneering ploys, with little follow-through on past promises.
As Ruto's itinerary continues across Ukambani, the blend of development and diplomacy could reshape Kenya's political landscape.
With elections just over a year away, the president's moves in this key region will be closely watched.
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