For a long time now, the people of Kisumu County have felt neglected by the National government. Kisumu has for a long time swore allegiance to the opposition with Raila Odinga being regarded as the political God of the region.
The famous 9th March Handshake between President Kenyatta and Raila Odinga seem to have brought back some level of sanity in the region with the area now enjoying some peace and tranquility following a turbulent election period that saw many residents loose their lives and property worth millions destroyed.
The President has today landed in the Lakeside city for the first time since the handshake with the head of state expected to launch the the pilot of the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) programme at Mamboleo showground.
Launching the UHC Programme is Uhuru’s major reason for visiting Kisumu but apart from that, he is also expected to launch a number of development projects in the region.
The President will launch the construction work at the Ahero Interchange Road.
Uhuru will also officially open the newly done Kisumu- Kakamega road before meeting leaders of various women Saccos.
He is also expected to talk about the SGR leg to Kisumu and the Port Construction.
The region expects to benefit from completion of the 254km standard gauge railway between Naivasha and Kisumu.
The section is projected to cost Sh380 billion.
Kisumu residents have turned up in large numbers to welcome the head of state with security being beefed up in Kisumu and his environs.
On Friday, Uhuru will proceed to Bondo via road addressing roadside crowds before joining Raila for the graduation ceremony at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology in Bondo, Siaya county where the two will be conferred honorary degrees following their handshake deal.
Also in attendance will be South African Vice President David Mabuza.
WillUhuru’s Visit to Kisumu finally help spur development in the region?