President William Ruto was met with an enthusiastic reception in Kisumu as residents turned out in large numbers to welcome him.
Along Oginga Odinga Streers, crowds gathered, waving white handkerchiefs to symbolise peace and joy while entertaining the president with lively songs and dances.
At the Roundabout, President Ruto was visibly impressed by the warm and peaceful reception from residents.
"Kisumu, kumbe nyinyi ni watu wa amani namna hii," he remarked, even as he assured the locals of goodies for the county and the entire region.
President Ruto announced that he would be staying in Kisumu for the next four days.
He humorously addressed the crowd, saying, "Naenda kulala na blanketi hapa mtanipanga namna gani niko na nyinyi mpaka Saturday," expressing his commitment to staying engaged with the community throughout his visit.
Ruto told the locals he has embarked on a significant development tour in the region, starting with Migori, emphasizing his commitment to nationwide progress and unity.
He stressed the importance of collective growth, stating, "Nimeanza safari yangu Migori na ni safari ya maendeleo kwasababu tumekubaliana hatutaki sehemu yeyote ya Kenya ibaki nyuma. Sisi wote tunatembea kama watu wa taifa moja."
The President outlined his plans for the region, including the construction of 10,000 housing units in Lumumba, with the first 4,000 units already underway.
He announced his intention to return to oversee the progress and urged the youth to participate actively in these projects.
"Nataka vijana muniskize kwa makini. Tutajenga nyumba elf kumi hapa Lumumba, na kesho kutwa nitakua pale kwasababu nataka vijana wa Kisumu na Kenya wajipange na ajira. Kila kijana aweze kujisimamia na kuwa na mapato," he said
The President also highlighted his administration's broader strategy to enhance job opportunities and economic growth across the country.
He mentioned plans to establish ICT hubs in every constituency to provide employment opportunities for the youth.
He also talked of setting up county aggregation and industrial parks in each county to boost local economies.
