Sigh of relief as Homa Bay County launches Sh1.4 billion slum upgrade project

Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga (right) during the launch of the Kenya Informal Settlements Improvement Project (KISIP) in Rusinga Old Town. [James Omoro, Standard]

"We received complaints from residents that the informal settlements get muddy and goods can hardly reach markets whenever it rains. This situation impedes their efforts in wealth creation and we are solving it through this project," Wanga said.

The project will also accord the business community the opportunity to trade for longer hours in the evening.

This follows the engagement of Nicholas Ayiro, the CEO of NAS International Group who had begun installing solar lights in Rusinga Old Town through the project.

"We are installing solar-powered street lights which provide security to residents besides enabling them to do business during darkness," Ayiro said.

Governor Wanga added that the project will improve cleanliness in informal settlements. "This will improve the health of the locals," she said.

"This project is also going to enhance the sanitation of residents. This will prevent diseases which result from filthy environment," Wanga said.

She told the residents to own the project. Mutiso urged residents to avoid vandalism of the project as it is meant for them.

"Let residents avoid vandalism of this project. It is meant to transform their lives," Mutiso said.