Clergy in Bungoma County are set to benefit from a new pastoral resource centre after 5.25 acres of land were dedicated at Kongoli in Bukembe East Ward.

The land, whose purchase was sponsored by President William Ruto, will host the Kongoli Pastoral Resource Centre.

Governor Kenneth Lusaka joined clergy and faithful during the dedication exercise at Kongoli, Nzoia, in Bukembe East Ward.

The centre is expected to strengthen pastoral leadership, nurture youth skills and spur local economic growth.

Lusaka described the project as a legacy investment that will go beyond spiritual nourishment to transform livelihoods.

He said the facility will provide a dedicated space for pastoral engagements and capacity-building while opening up economic opportunities for surrounding communities.

 “This centre will be more than a place for pastoral activities. It will be an investment in people, a hub for nurturing skills and an engine for economic growth that will transform livelihoods across the surrounding communities,” Lusaka said.

 He added that the project aligns with his administration’s development agenda, citing ongoing road infrastructure improvements and the revival of Nzoia Sugar Company as evidence of Kenya Kwanza’s commitment to Western Kenya.

 The governor, who is also President Ruto’s re-election coordinator for Western Region, urged residents to judge leaders by their development record ahead of the 2027 General Election.

 “People should judge leadership by tangible development and its impact on their lives. We must focus on projects that create opportunities, improve livelihoods and deliver lasting benefits,” he said.

 He called for political tolerance and peaceful coexistence and asked the clergy to pray for national unity, peace and stability.

The construction of the centre is expected to boost demand for local services and create jobs for youth in Nzoia and neighbouring areas.

Lusaka reaffirmed that his administration will continue to support community-centred projects that deliver long-term benefits to residents.

by Chris Mahandara