By Hyline Ocharo
President William Ruto is set to visit the Gusii soon but there is worry that although he pledged to inject development in the region last year, the community has nothing to show for it.
The pledges were made during a high-level meeting at State House last year, leaders from Kisii and Nyamira counties sought government intervention to fast-track key infrastructure and economic projects.
However, nearly a year later, concerns are growing over what locals describe as slow or non-existent progress.
Among the major issues raised is the delay in the completion of stalled road projects across the region, with residents noting that none of the promised roads have been finalized.
Several key road networks, including Keroka–Ibacho–Kiamokama, Nyanturago–Ekona–Ikorongo, and Magombo–Makairo–Bondeni, remain incomplete, hampering transport and economic activities.
Equally concerning is the status of the Kisii Cancer Centre, which was expected to be completed before June 2026 but is reportedly only about 10 percent complete.
The proposed Nyamira University project in Kiabonyoru has also failed to take off as anticipated, with no significant construction progress reported.
Other stalled projects include the rehabilitation of Suneka Airstrip, expansion of the Bomet–Kaplong–Chepilat–Kisii road, and the upgrading of Kisii Stadium to international standards.
Promises to construct 18 modern markets across the region and a new Daraja Mbili Market have also yet to materialize.
Residents have further expressed concern over the lack of progress in the proposed Daraja Mbili overpass, which was intended to ease traffic congestion and reduce accidents, as well as delays in last-mile electricity connectivity.
The planned relocation of Kisii Prisons to pave the way for affordable housing in Nyanturago has also not been implemented, raising questions about the government’s commitment to urban development in the area.
As the President prepares to visit the region, leaders and residents are now calling for a comprehensive status report on all the promised projects before any new commitments are made.
Some community members have also challenged local leadership, accusing elected representatives of failing to effectively follow up on development agendas after assuming office.
At the same time, there have been calls for increased civic participation, with residents urged to register and vote in future elections to strengthen their bargaining power.