Siaya Governor James Orengo has called on President William Ruto to support the economic transformation of Siaya County, emphasizing agriculture and cotton farming as key drivers of growth. Speaking during a June 5, 2025, meeting at State House, Nairobi, Orengo highlighted that strategic government investment in infrastructure and enterprise could significantly improve livelihoods in the county.
Where agriculture thrives, national government investment in infrastructure and enterprise can positively change the lives of communities, the Governor said. He noted that agriculture and the blue economy remain the county’s top sectors for driving socio-economic development.
Orengo recounted Siaya’s history with coffee and cotton farming and pledged to collaborate with the national government to revive these sectors, thereby increasing productivity and household incomes. The discussion also covered ongoing and upcoming national government projects in the county, with a focus on partnerships that strengthen collaboration between the National and County Governments.
President Ruto pledged support, announcing a Sh1 billion investment to develop the Usenge Pier and associated port infrastructure to boost the blue economy in Siaya. He also revealed plans to construct 16 modern markets nationwide at a cost of Sh2.5 billion and allocate Sh1.6 billion to connect over 16,000 households to electricity, initiatives aimed at stimulating trade, entrepreneurship, and improving livelihoods.