Governor James Orengo, alongside key county officials, held a second meeting with residents of Central Alego Ward and Yimbo East Ward to address the ongoing Yala Delta impasse.
The dispute involves Lake Agro Limited and residents, centering on a contentious land lease agreement. Governor Orengo emphasized the need for consultations among the County Government of Siaya, Lake Agro, and the community to forge a sustainable resolution that benefits all stakeholders.
The Governor reiterated his commitment to fostering investments that drive economic growth, create jobs, and generate income for residents. However, he stressed that such initiatives must involve public participation and agreements with affected communities. The residents have raised concerns over inadequate consultation, insufficient compensation, and a prolonged lease agreement that they argue restricts their access to farming and cultivation opportunities along the delta. Spanning approximately 29,000 hectares in the Katuoro Kadenge area of Alego Usonga Sub-County, the land is widely regarded as a "breadbasket" due to its rich agricultural potential.
Governor Orengo commended the residents of Yimbo East Ward for their patience amid the ongoing stalemate, highlighting that Lake Agro, the investor involved, has dispatched emissaries to engage with the community. He also noted that the national government has expressed a willingness to support efforts toward a lasting resolution.
He pledged to ensure that the two neighborhoods along the Yala Delta receive conclusive outcomes, addressing the impasse—particularly regarding leaseholds—through solutions that are both sustainable and aligned with constitutional requirements for public participation.
Governor Orengo envisions a framework that ensures smooth operations while promoting both immediate income opportunities, such as farming, and long-term development projects, including factory construction. These efforts aim to bolster Siaya County’s economic prospects while safeguarding the livelihoods of residents. However, the current lease terms have sparked opposition, with locals arguing that they undermine community interests. Residents are calling for renegotiated lease terms or the option to offer the land on conditions that reflect their needs, rather than adhering to what they describe as an unfair agreement.
In a bid to end the stalemate amicably and ensure that both economic development and resident welfare are prioritized, the County Government of Siaya, under Governor Orengo’s leadership, is working to rebuild trust and demonstrate its commitment to inclusive decision-making by engaging directly with the community and advocating for a fair resolution.
The Governor was accompanied by County Secretary Joseph Ogutu, CECMs Maurice Otieno MC'Orege (Lands, Physical Planning, Housing, and Urban Development), Madam Angeline Atieno Oduor ( Tourism, Sports, Culture and Arts) Sylvester K’Okoth (Agriculture, Livestock, Food, and Fisheries), and Dr. Martin K’Onyango (Health and Sanitation). Other officials included Chief Officers Hon. Walter Okelo (Governance, Administration, and ICT), Dr. Samuel Omondi (Health), Joseph Omondi (Lands), and Eng. Kevin Ajuul (Roads and Public Works), as well as hosts MCAs Hon. David Omondi Ragen (Central Alego) and Hon. Francis Otiato (East Yimbo Ward), Acting County Attorney General Adv. Leonard Okanda, Director of Public Communication Mr. Chrispine Omondi, and former nominated MCA H Winnie Mercy alias "Simba Nyiri," among others.