This archive report was first published on 5 July 2021.
On July 5, 2021, President Uhuru Kenyatta's tour of Ukambani region was postponed, just a day before it was set to begin.
The decision was made in light of the Kenya Medical Research Institute's (KEMRI) warning that the country would experience a fourth Covid-19 wave in mid-July.
Machakos Governor Alfred Mutua revealed that the President had postponed the tour to allow the Ministry of Health to monitor the situation.
According to Mutua, the trip had been postponed for a few weeks to allow the Ministry of Health to monitor what appears to be the beginning of a 4th wave.
Uhuru was set to inspect progress of Konza City in Machakos county, launch the construction of Yatta and Miwongoni dams, and visit Makueni.
Despite the postponement, Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka urged Ukambani residents to turn up in huge numbers and welcome the President when he eventually visits.
Other development proposals for the region include the establishment of Makueni University, acceleration of the construction of Emali-Ukia -Wote road, and the launch of the Kibwezi-Kitui Migwani road, which has been delayed due to compensation issues.