The current Kisumu Governor, Prof. Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o, is serving his second and final term in office. He was appointed the ODM party leader after Raila Odinga relinquished the post to focus on his African Union chairmanship. Nyong’o succeeded Jack Ranguma, the first governor of Kisumu County, who struggled to secure a second term due to waning support from ODM leadership and Orange House.
Achievements
Improved Cleanliness and Environmental Management
Opinions among Kisumu residents are sharply divided regarding Nyong’o’s performance. He is credited with transforming the Kachok dumpsite, turning it from an eyesore into a thriving ecosystem. His administration has also significantly improved city cleanliness, making Kisumu one of the cleanest cities in the country.
Repossession of Public Land
Additionally, the county government has repossessed several stalls on public land that had been grabbed by opportunists, relieving tenants from exorbitant rental rates.
Challenges
Economic Hardships
However, challenges persist. Many SMEs have been forced out of business, leading to poor cash flow within the city. Street vendors, the Jua Kali sector, and the booming lakeside hotel industry have suffered due to the county government’s reorganization efforts, resulting in thousands of lost job opportunities and a rising crime rate.
Rising Crime Rates
Nighttime incidents of muggings and assaults have become common, culminating in violent clashes over control of the newly refurbished Kibuye Market, where motorcycles were torched and individuals attacked with pangas.
Rural Development Issues
In rural areas, development has also stagnated. Former Governor Jack Ranguma had opened numerous access roads, facilitating agricultural transport and movement. However, many of these roads are now nearly impassable, causing frustration among residents who blame their area MCAs, who in turn point fingers at the governor.
Healthcare Challenges
Healthcare remains a significant challenge post-devolution. The Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) once received the majority of the county’s health budget and saw notable improvements, including enhanced hygiene and new facilities. Yet, JOOTRH has been overwhelmed by referral cases, leading to the delegation of some responsibilities to other health facilities like Lumumba Health Centre and Kisumu County Hospital. JOOTRH was eventually handed over to the national government after Senate Health Committee approval. While rural health facilities have gained ambulances, a lack of essential drugs and low staff morale continue to impede service delivery.
Tourism and Economic Opportunities
Tourism and the blue economy have not been fully capitalized on in Kisumu County. Attractions like Impala Park, Ndere Island Park, and Kit Mikayi have not been effectively marketed as tourist destinations. However, the opening of Sarova Hotel has provided a much-needed boost to the local hospitality industry.
Conclusion
As devolution reshapes the country, it is clear that there remains much work to be done in Kisumu.
