Development and Politics Intersect in Border County

BUSIA, KENYA – President William Ruto on Friday, 31 October 2025, launched a multi-billion shilling development programme in Busia County, combining the unveiling of key infrastructure projects with a stern message to the political opposition. During a tour that included stops in Funyula, Matayos, and Teso South constituencies, the President initiated projects in housing, education, and market infrastructure, while urging local leaders and residents to work with the national government.

In a series of events attended by local leaders including Governor Paul Otuoma, President Ruto asserted that his administration is focused on equitable development across all regions, regardless of political affiliation. "We have agreed to shun divisive politics and unite... to transform our country," President Ruto stated while inspecting the Funyula Affordable Housing Project. He criticised opponents, claiming they lacked the vision to advance the country's fortunes and were focused on tribal mobilisation.

A KSh 1.1 Billion Economic Blueprint

The cornerstone of the President's visit was the launch and inspection of projects valued at over KSh 1.1 billion, aimed at transforming Busia's economic landscape. A significant portion of this investment is channelled into the Affordable Housing Programme (AHP). The government plans to construct approximately 10,000 housing units, 6,000 student hostel beds, and 14 modern markets across the county.

Key projects commissioned included:

• Bumbe Technical Training Institute (TTI): The President laid the foundation stone for a new 340-bed capacity hostel to accommodate the institution's growing student population of 3,500.
• Alupe University and Amukura TTC: Ground was broken for new student housing projects at both Alupe University in Teso South and Amukura Teachers Training College.
• Affordable Housing Estates: The tour included an inspection of the 955-unit Funyula AHP project and the launch of the Boma Yangu Busia ATC Phase 1 Estate in Matayos, which will feature 1,025 units.
• Malaba Strategic Market: A new modern market was launched in the crucial border town of Malaba, intended to boost cross-border trade.

President Ruto emphasised that these projects are designed to create jobs for local youth and artisans, with jua kali groups contracted to supply items like doors and windows. "We have provided opportunities for locals to hone their skills by engaging them as casual labourers, semi-skilled workers, as well as professionals," he said.

Political Undercurrents in a Key Region

The development tour carries significant political weight. Western Kenya has historically been an opposition stronghold, and the President's visit is widely seen as a strategic effort to win over the region. The tour, part of a broader four-day visit to Western Kenya, saw the President accompanied by high-profile regional leaders such as Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula.

Busia Governor Paul Otuoma, an ODM-elected leader, publicly affirmed his readiness to collaborate with the national government. "The people of Busia are ready to work hand in hand with the national government to spur development," Otuoma stated, urging leaders to set aside political differences. This collaborative tone from local opposition leaders signals a potential political realignment in the region.

Busia's Strategic Importance

Busia's role as a primary gateway to the East African Community underpins the strategic importance of the infrastructure upgrades. The Busia and Malaba One-Stop Border Posts (OSBPs) are critical for trade with Uganda and beyond. Efficient border crossings are vital for reducing transport costs and increasing trade volumes along the Northern Corridor. Studies have shown that OSBPs can reduce border crossing times by over 60%, providing a direct economic benefit. The government has also announced ambitious plans to extend the Nairobi-Mau Summit dual carriageway to Malaba, a move that would further cement Busia's position as a key economic hub.

Governor Otuoma highlighted other stalled projects he hopes the national government will revive, including the Nasewa Industrial Park and Export Processing Zone (EPZ), for which the state has reportedly committed KSh 1 billion. These initiatives, coupled with the new housing and market projects, form a comprehensive strategy to accelerate economic growth and alleviate poverty in a county central to Kenya's regional trade ambitions.