PRESIDENT RUTO UNVEILS DEVELOPMENT GOODIES FOR UKAMBANI AS KITUI TAKES CENTER STAGE
President William Ruto’s recent visit to Ukambani has brought renewed optimism to the region as he unveiled an impressive basket of development goodies, with Kitui County emerging as a key beneficiary. The projects cut across infrastructure, water, energy, markets, education, and tourism — a clear signal of the government’s intent to unlock the county’s socio-economic potential. Among the flagship projects highlighted were the completion of Ithookwe Stadium, the upgrading of Kitui Airstrip, and the construction of major road networks such as Chuluni–Nzombe–Mwitika Road, Kamuwongo–Kandwia Road, and Ikutha–Mutha–Mutomo Road.
The President also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to finalize critical water infrastructure, including Thwake Dam and Umaa Dam, both expected to be completed by April next year. In addition, the High Grand Falls Dam — one of Kenya’s largest multipurpose projects — remains a cornerstone of the region’s long-term water and energy strategy. Other notable investments include KSh 2.2 billion for electricity connection to 16,500 homes, the construction and modernization of key markets such as Kitui, Mwingi, Kabati, Mutomo, and Kalundu, and the building of hostels for TVET and university students across all constituencies.
Beyond the new pledges, Kitui leaders have emphasized the importance of acknowledging the solid foundation already laid through earlier initiatives that continue to transform local livelihoods. Completed or ongoing projects include the Ithiani, Kakongo, Kamuw’ongo, and Mutomo markets; the Mwania Dam in Mwingi Central; the Kabati Power Substation in Kitui West; and the Kitui Integrated Industrial Park, which is driving value addition and job creation. The Mutitu–Ndoa Water Piping Project in Kitui East and the Mathima Borehole implemented by the Ministry of Tourism have also improved water access in arid zones.
Equally significant are the tourism and conservation efforts, notably the Kasaala Tsavo Gate and its supporting borehole in Kitui Central, which have boosted access to Tsavo East National Park. The renovation of the Mutomo Wildlife Station and the disbursement of KSh 95 million in human–wildlife conflict compensation underscore the government’s focus on balancing conservation with community well-being. Utalii College projects and operationalization of Mwingi (Kasina) University have further enhanced local education and skills development opportunities.
mathima borehole implemented by the ministry of tourism.
There are 34 medium/small projects
Cultural recognition has also played a role in Kitui’s recent transformation. During his tenure as Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Hon. Mwangu Ivuti spearheaded the declaration of three Mashujaa — Ithiani’s own Mwangu Ivuti (KC), Musyoka wa Maiyu (MN), and Consolata Chamaiyo Muvea (MC) — acknowledging their outstanding contributions to society. Such recognitions continue to inspire local pride and reinforce Kitui’s place in Kenya’s national story.
As President Ruto rolls out a fresh package of transformative projects, Kitui residents are reminded not to overlook the earlier “basket of goodies” that have quietly borne fruit. These foundational developments — though less flashy — have paved the way for sustainable progress. The message from local leaders is clear: to champion fair, meaningful, and consistent development that uplifts every corner of Kitui County and strengthens Ukambani’s role in Kenya’s journey toward shared prosperity.
