Eric Wamumbi: It is true Nyanza was marginalised in development

Mathira Member of Parliament Eric Wamumbi has confirmed that certain regions, specifically Nyanza, faced marginalisation in the distribution of government development initiatives under previous governments. Speaking on K24 TV on August 26, 2026, Wamumbi stated that some areas were excluded from investments such as roads, markets, stadiums, schools, and hospitals due to decisions made by government officials.

He acknowledged that government officials often influenced the allocation of development projects, leading to some regions receiving fewer investments than others. Wamumbi explained that while MPs could attempt to lobby for projects in their constituencies, government operatives held significant power in deciding where development funds were allocated.

He specifically highlighted Nyanza as a region that had historically received minimal development. However, Wamumbi noted that this situation had changed under President William Ruto, who emphasized that all Kenyans, regardless of their voting preference, should benefit from government projects. Wamumbi attributed this shift to Ruto's belief that development should be a shared responsibility of the government rather than being solely determined by individual MPs.

Despite this, Wamumbi emphasized that MPs still had a role to play in lobbying for development within their constituencies. He noted the limited nature of government resources, which creates competition among regions and constituencies for development projects. Wamumbi recounted his own lobbying efforts in Mathira since his election in 2022, securing several projects for his area.

He also cautioned that MPs who focused primarily on political activities might overlook opportunities to secure development for their constituents. Wamumbi illustrated this point with an example of MPs competing on political campaigns rather than allocating resources to development. His comments come as there is increased political discussion about regional development and the distribution of government projects in the lead-up to the 2027 General Election.