- President William Ruto launched multi-billion shilling projects in Siaya County aimed at unlocking the economic potential of Lake Victoria
- The government has allocated KSh1 billion for fish hatching and restocking stations, as well as new landing sites in Luanda Kotieno and Asembo Bay
- Additional investments include rescue stations, boats and support for aquaculture, as well as cold storage and drying facilities.
President William Ruto has initiated a series of multi-billion shilling projects in Siaya county, laying the foundation for major economic changes around Lake Victoria.
Source: UGC
Ruto’s actions were more indicative of the government’s actions Kenya First of exploiting the long-term potential of the area that has not been fully utilized.
The projects, which involve fisheries, infrastructure and job creation, are designed to strengthen Kenya’s blue economy while improving livelihoods for lake-dependent communities.
This came during the president’s visit to the region, where he outlined a comprehensive plan to improve fishing, reduce losses and expand market access.
What are the projects that Ruto has launched in Siaya county?
At the center of the plan is an investment of KSh1 billion aimed at reviving fish production which will see funds directed to building hatcheries and replenishing fish fry in Lake Victoria, increasing fish stocks and stabilizing income for fishermen.
Beyond production, the government also aims to improve the entire fishing value chain with two landing sites already completed in Luanda Kotieno, while a new one is being launched in Asembo Bay.
These centers are expected to reduce transportation challenges, connect fishermen and markets more efficiently and support business within and outside the region.
Efforts to improve safety in the lake are also ongoing and the government plans to establish rescue centers and provide rescue boats to deal with frequent accidents and emergencies that have often put fishermen at risk.
Additionally, investment in fish cages is being established to support aquaculture, providing an alternative and more controlled method of aquaculture.
To address post-harvest losses, a major challenge in the sector, the government is investing in cold storage facilities and fish drying machines.
These are expected to help traders store their produce for a long time, reduce wastage and ultimately increase their income.
What other developments are planned to be implemented in Siaya?
Ruto said the projects are part of a broader plan to ensure integrated development across the country, stressing that no area will be left behind.
In Siaya, this approach extends beyond the lake, with additional investment planned in affordable housing, market infrastructure, electricity connections, student hostels and road networks.
Residents who attended the event welcomed the projects, describing them as a long overdue intervention that could transform the local economy.
Many expressed hope that the development will create employment opportunities, especially for young people who have struggled to find stable sources of income.
John Okelo, a resident, said the scale of the projects was unprecedented in the area and urged the government to maintain the momentum.
He also called for diplomatic cooperation with Uganda about the frequent arrests of Kenyan fishermen, an issue that continues to disrupt life along the lake.
“What Ruto has done here we have not seen since independence. We ask him to continue to visit us with similar development projects,” said John Okelo.
Other residents echoed such sentiments, as some pointed out that the construction of a new jetty would open up job opportunities and stimulate economic activity.
Benard Misolo said that the projects are a sign of visible progress, while Linet Daniel pointed out that businesses can benefit from the increase in movement and business once the landing areas start to work fully.
Source: Facebook
Concerns about border fishing tensions with Uganda remain an important issue for local communities as fishermen regularly warn of arrests and confiscation of equipment.
Interior Secretary Raymond Omollo said the government is working to ensure that the youth benefit from emerging opportunities related to the projects.
Ruto acknowledged that the Lake Victoria region has historically received little investment but said his administration is committed to changing that story.
He noted that billions of shillings have already been allocated to the region, positioning the blue economy as an important pillar in Kenya’s wider economic transformation.
The President also indicated that more projects are underway, promising to return to the area to launch more plans.
Did Orengo welcome Ruto Siaya?
In a related report, the governor of Siaya James Orengo attended a public event hosted by Ruto despite their ongoing political differences.
Orengo, who was critical of the president and opposition groups within the Orange Democratic Movement, joined leaders in launching the KSh 1 billion Usenge Bridge project in Bondo.
Ruto said the government is investing billions to strengthen the blue economy around Lake Victoria, improve lives, and create jobs.
Orengo welcomed President Siaya and encouraged ongoing visits, while stressing that his political position remains independent.
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