Siaya Governor James Orengo has made a direct appeal to President William Ruto to support the economic transformation of his county through strategic investment in agriculture and infrastructure.
Speaking on Thursday, June 5, 2025, during a meeting at State House, Nairobi, Orengo said national government involvement in key sectors could lift the lives of Siaya residents.
He was part of a delegation of leaders and businessmen from Siaya County that met with Ruto to explore development opportunities.
“Please come to our aid in transforming Siaya,” Orengo told the President. “Where agriculture is impactful, national government investment in infrastructure and enterprise can positively change community livelihoods.”
Call for support
Orengo highlighted agriculture and the blue economy as critical sectors in Siaya’s growth. He pointed to the decline of traditional crops like cotton and coffee, which once thrived in the region, and urged for their revival.
“Siaya used to grow coffee,” he said. “We were happy to host CS Wycliffe Oparanya, who had a session with our farmers. With the right support, agriculture can thrive again.”
Facing Political Fire
Despite his development calls, Orengo’s appeal comes amid simmering political tensions. The governor has been a vocal critic of President Ruto, especially following ODM’s controversial political truce with the ruling UDA party.
During the burial of Raila Odinga’s longtime bodyguard two months ago, an event President Ruto attended, Orengo openly told ODM supporters to “stand up and fight for their rights,” a defiant stance that drew applause from loyalists but criticism from fellow leaders.
Orengo has faced backlash from top ODM leaders in Siaya, who accuse him of clinging to outdated activism.
Senator Oburu has publicly questioned Orengo’s style, urging him to align with the evolving political landscape instead of rallying resistance.
A group of self-identified professionals from Siaya even attempted to push for Orengo’s impeachment, though the move collapsed after a majority of MCAs sided with the governor.
Even as political undercurrents persist, Orengo now says he is ready to work with the national government to deliver tangible development for Siaya residents.
Big plans ahead
During the meeting, President Ruto assured the delegation that the national government had lined up major projects for Siaya and the surrounding Lake Region.
He announced a Ksh1 billion investment to develop the Usenge Pier and surrounding port infrastructure, aiming to unlock the blue economy’s potential.
“We will invest to stimulate the economy of the region,” Ruto stated.
Additionally, the President revealed plans to construct 16 modern markets across the country, worth KSh2.5 billion, to support local trade and small businesses.
Of those, several are expected to benefit counties in the Nyanza region, including Siaya.
Ruto further disclosed that KSh1.6 billion has been allocated to connect over 16,000 households to the national electricity grid, aiming to boost entrepreneurship and improve the quality of life.
“We’re focused on inclusive development,” he said. “Strengthening partnerships with counties like Siaya is central to delivering services and unlocking grassroots growth.”
