Doubts over Ruto's Narok projects as groundwork stalls

Nearly a month after President William Ruto made a high-profile visit to Narok County to launch a series of flagship development projects, no construction work has begun, raising scepticism among residents and local leaders.

On May 6, the head of state announced the construction of the Sh1.4 billion Narok International Airport, aimed at enhancing tourism and improving access to the world-renowned Maasai Mara Game Reserve.

The airport is to be built at the former Oloisiusiu Airstrip in Ewuaso Ng’iro and is considered a strategic project to unlock the county’s economic potential.

“This airport will not only support tourism but also stimulate business and regional growth,” the President stated during the launch, which was billed as the official ground-breaking ceremony.

In addition to the airport, Ruto unveiled an ambitious road upgrade project covering 81 kilometres across the Narok West, Narok South, Emurua Dikirr, and Kilgoris constituencies.

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The road improvements, supervised by the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA) and funded by the national government, are intended to enhance connectivity and facilitate the transportation of goods and services.

The targeted road links include Mulot–Sogoo–Tendwet (31 km), Sogoo–Ololung’a (28 km), Shartuka–Njipship–Olchobosei–Abosi–Gorgor (19 km), and the Tendwet–September stretch (3 km).

However, residents say that the heavy machinery used during the launch left the same day, and no visible construction activity has been observed at any of the sites since then.

“A month after the presidential launch, not a single bulldozer has returned. It’s starting to feel like political theatrics,” said James ole Nkuruna, a resident of Narok West.

Lenard Lemayian, a youth leader from Narok South, echoed similar concerns: “Many young people were looking forward to jobs from these projects. The silence since the launch is disappointing,” he said.

Local leaders have also expressed concerns over the apparent stagnation, urging the government to clarify project timelines and provide transparency regarding the procurement and mobilisation process.

Efforts to obtain official comments from KeRRA and the Ministry of Roads about the reasons for the delays have, so far, been unsuccessful.

As the dry season approaches — an ideal time for construction — residents fear that without prompt action, another opportunity for development may be lost.

The stalled start of these flagship projects comes amid increasing scrutiny of government infrastructure promises across various counties.

While President Ruto has consistently reiterated his administration's commitment to equitable development, such delays risk undermining public trust.

During the Madaraka Day celebrations in Narok, political leaders, including Governor Patrick ole Ntutu, defended the projects, urging patience.

“The airport construction is underway, and roadworks will commence soon after the national budget process is completed,” said Governor Ntutu.