President William Ruto is set to kick off a five-day tour of the Mt. Kenya region today, Tuesday, April 1, 2025, where he will launch and inspect multi-billion-shilling development projects. This marks his first visit to the region in nearly six months, with his itinerary starting in Laikipia County.
During the tour, Ruto will traverse nine counties—Laikipia, Nyeri, Meru, Kirinyaga, Nyandarua, Murang’a, Embu, Tharaka-Nithi, and Kiambu—overseeing key projects aimed at accelerating economic growth. His agenda includes major investments in road infrastructure, affordable housing, fresh produce markets, last-mile electricity connectivity, water supply, and irrigation.
Ruto’s Mt. Kenya Tour Itinerary
On April 1, 2025, Ruto will begin his visit in Laikipia and Nyeri counties before heading to Meru and Kirinyaga on April 2, 2025. He will then proceed to Nyandarua and Murang’a on April 3, 2025, followed by Tharaka Nithi and Embu on April 4, 2025. The tour will conclude on April 5, 2025, with stops in Nyeri and Kiambu.
A key focus of the visit will be the inspection of modern fresh produce markets, part of a nationwide initiative to establish 500 markets. These markets, currently at various stages of completion, aim to provide small-scale traders with proper workspace and sanitation.
Major Infrastructure and Development Projects
Ruto will also assess the ongoing construction of the Mau Mau Road in Lari Constituency, Kiambu. This strategic road network, recently allocated Ksh5 billion, will enhance connectivity between Kiambu, Murang’a, Nyandarua, and Nyeri counties by cutting through the Aberdare and Mt. Kenya forests.
Additionally, he will inspect the progress of County Aggregation and Industrial Parks (CAIPs) across all nine counties. These parks, funded through a joint investment of Ksh500 million per county, are expected to boost local manufacturing and value addition. The president is also set to launch new affordable housing projects, reinforcing his commitment to the government’s housing agenda.
Political Undertones of Ruto’s Visit
Beyond development, Ruto’s visit comes amid rising political tensions in Mt. Kenya, particularly regarding his relationship with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. The region, which played a crucial role in his 2022 election victory, has witnessed growing divisions between leaders allied to the president and those supporting Gachagua.
Rift Valley leaders close to Ruto have openly criticized Gachagua, accusing him of making divisive remarks. Nandi Governor Stephen Sang dismissed Gachagua’s claims that Ruto is a one-term president, stating, “You can’t say he is a one-term president when you yourself didn’t even complete half a term. Ruto will be re-elected.”
Murang’a Woman Representative Betty Maina urged leaders to unite and support the president’s visit, emphasizing the need for a warm reception. Similarly, Nominated MP Sabina Chege called for a peaceful and respectful engagement with the president during his tour.
Strengthening Development and Unity in Mt. Kenya
Ruto’s five-day tour presents a crucial opportunity to reinforce his development agenda and political influence in Mt. Kenya. With billions of shillings allocated to key projects, his visit is expected to shape the region’s economic transformation while addressing political concerns that could impact his future electoral strategies.
Stay updated on President Ruto’s Mt. Kenya tour as he unveils transformative projects and engages with local leaders and communities.
