Ruto pushes for review of economic blocs

Former Governor Isaac Ruto (pictured) has proposed a review of regional economic blocs to bring together counties facing similar challenges.

Mr Ruto said the way economic blocs have been aligned at the moment would disadvantage some counties.

Citing the Lake Region Economic Bloc (LREB), Ruto said devolved units in South Rift would be disadvantaged since a majority of member counties have diverse cultures and economic activities.

Ruto said there was an urgent need to conduct public participation in reviewing economic blocs.

speaking at a public baraza in Konoin at the weekend, the Chama Cha Mashinani party leader demanded that a process of reviewing the organisation of blocs be initiated.

His sentiments come hot on the heels of calls by a section of Kipsigis Myoot Council of Elders, led by its chair Paul Leleito, to dissolve LREB.

Mr Leleito said Bomet, Kericho and other counties in the Rift Valley would be disadvantaged in rolling out of programmes by LREB.

He said all economic blocs should consider common culture and economic activities.

Leleito said they were going to petition immediate realignment of the blocs.

Siaya, Homa Bay, Nyamira, Kisii, Migori, Kakamega, Bungoma, Busia, Vihiga, Trans Nzoia, Bomet, Nandi, Kisumu and Kericho counties make up LREB.

Bomet Governor Joyce Laboso, who is also vice chair of the bloc, has however insisted that locals stand to benefit from the bloc’s diversity.