Coastal Kenya is poised for a major development boost as President William Ruto embarks on a weeklong tour of the region, unveiling ambitious projects set to transform the area’s infrastructure and socio-economic landscape.
President Ruto’s visit, which began on Friday, February 21, marks his first return to the coastal counties in seven months. Over the course of the week, he will traverse Mombasa, Kilifi, Kwale, Taita Taveta, and Tana River counties, launching new projects and commissioning completed ones.
Key among the initiatives is the construction of the Kwa Jomvu–Mariakani road, a crucial artery expected to ease traffic and enhance commerce in the region. The President will also inaugurate affordable housing projects aimed at addressing the region’s housing deficit and providing decent, accessible homes for residents.
Land issues remain a priority on the President’s agenda, with a commitment to resolving the long-standing squatter problem. Ruto has tasked Cabinet Secretaries Salim Mvurya and Hassan Joho, along with Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, with identifying land owned by absentee landlords for government acquisition. The administration plans to purchase these lands and resettle affected families, with the issuance of title deeds scheduled by December.
Speaking at the burial ceremony of Senate Speaker Kingi’s father in Kilifi, Ruto underscored his administration’s resolve to promote equitable development and end discriminatory practices. He also vowed to streamline the national identification process, ensuring all Kenyan citizens face uniform requirements without excessive scrutiny.
Additionally, the President celebrated strides in recognizing marginalized communities. Following the formal recognition of the Pembe people, the Watta community has now been assigned a registration code, a step toward full recognition and inclusion.
As President Ruto continues his coastal tour, the anticipation and optimism among residents grow, with hopes that the initiatives launched will usher in a new era of prosperity and opportunity for the region.
