President Kenyatta in another low-key tour of Kisumu port

President Uhuru Kenyatta toured Kisumu County on Sunday, his first trip to the region since the Covid-19 pandemic hit the country in March, to inspect the port which is being revamped.

Police officers were stationed at every entry point and roundabout in anticipation of the President's arrival. He landed a few minutes after 1pm, about three hours later than expected.

There were reports that Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga would host Mr Kenyatta but sources at the port said he was not there.

The President was accompanied by Chief of Defence Forces General Robert Kibochi, National Youth Service Director-General Matilda Sakwa and a lean security detail.

However, security was tight at the Kisumu International Airport and the port, with officers from the General Service Unit in position.

The media and the public were kept at bay as the President toured the port, just as has been the case with his past inspections.

"This is a low profile event that not even politicians are allowed to attend," a source said.

Employment hopes

President Kenyatta was also to visit the Uhuru Business Park, which was constructed for the more than 10,000 traders evicted from Kenya Railways’ land to pave way for the port’s renovation.

He did not visit the park and left in a chopper for the airport, where a Kenya Air Force plane awaited, after about an hour and 15 minutes at the port.

Some residents said they were unhappy that the President did not address them.

Regarding government projects in the county, one Phillip Manasse said, "We are happy that the President came and that since his handshake with our party leader, development has been evident in Kisumu, especially at the port and the business park. We hope there will be massive employment."