Agriculture, health top agenda as Nyanza governors take oath

Kisii Governor Simba Arati displays his swearing-in certificate at Gusii Stadium on August 25, 2022. [Sammy Omingpo,Standard]

He outlined plans to revamp the health sector and improve what he described as accountability in the devolved unit to ensure his administration transforms the lives of residents.

"It did not end at the ballot, we made a covenant to implement our social plan and economic development," said Arati at the Gusii Stadium where he was sworn in by Justice Teresia Mumbi.

He said his administration would prioritise accountability in the health sector to help ensure that it serves the people.

"Health can be improved if those responsible for delivering services are held accountable. I will provide Simba Shelter Health Scheme to help the poor with housing and improved healthcare," he said.

On education, Arati said his focus would be to ensure construction of several Early Childhood Development (ECDE) centres is completed as well as issue bursaries for needy students.

In agriculture, Arati said Kisii had been struggling to regain its lost glory in producing agricultural produce.

He said he would improve human resource, tendering process, and procurement: "We will not hesitate to punish those who looted public funds; efficiency can only be achieved if we have a disciplined workforce. We will reprimand those who will want to derail the change we require."

Outgoing Governor James Ongwa said politics was over and time had come to move on for the benefit of Kisii residents.

Ongwae said he had institutionalised the county for takeoff by the next governor. "I saw how you campaigned and that is a clear indication of the zeal you have to take over the mantle of leadership," he told the new governor.

Ongwae pointed out pending development projects, including the construction of the Sh1.2 billion cancer center. He said this would be the largest cancer centre in Western region.

"I had my own weaknesses but I believe I have done my best. Politics aside, the incoming governor is my friend and I will support him towards delivering his mandate," he said.

Outgoing Senator Prof Sam Ongeri called on Kisii leaders to put aside political differences and implement the county's development agenda.

In Migori, Governor Ochillo Ayacko pledged to transform the county and put it on a positive economic trajectory.

**Outgoing Migori Governor Cornel Rasanga hands over instruments of power to James Orengo** **after being sworn in at KMTC grounds on August 25, 2022.** [Collins Oduor, Standard]

In his maiden speech at the Siaya Kenya Medical Training College, Orengo, who was handed the instruments of power by the outgoing governor Cornel Rasanga, said he was ready to deliver their election promises. He was sworn into office by Justice Jackline Kamau.

"The campaigns are over and we're getting down to work," said Orengo.

Orengo, who promised to ensure good governance, said women would be at the centre of power in his administration.

"Women worked hard and I can assure them that the responsibility of performance now lies with us," he said, adding that they also have a responsibility to create jobs for the youth in the county.

He said they would be accountable to the people of Siaya by holding weekly meetings with specific groups for performance audit.

"I will be with you in the villages to ensure that we understand and address the issues affecting you," said Orengo.

In Kisumu, Prof Nyong'o, who is serving his second term, promised to continue with his development agenda for the devolved unit.