By Anderson Ojwang
For the first time, Nyanza is hosting an all-inclusive International Investment Conference in Kisumu that brings together all players across political divides.
The investment initiative, which was originally driven by a section of Nyanza professionals and leaders in President William Ruto’s government, had initially been met with resistance from governors and political leaders in the region, who claimed they were not engaged in the process.
Amid rising political tensions and developments in the country, the organisers postponed the event indefinitely in June last year. However, with the formation of the broad-based government that brought together President Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga, the initiative received a new lease of life.
As it is currently constituted, all the governors—Gladys Wanga (Homa Bay), Prof Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o (Kisumu), James Orengo (Siaya), Simba Arati (Kisii), Ochillo Ayacko (Migori), and Amos Nyaribo (Nyamira)—are all engaged, along with the MPs from the region.
This time, the conference is fully inclusive and will bring together leaders and professionals from all sectors in Nyanza. The event will take place in Kisumu from February 6th to 8th at the Ciala Resort.
The conference, dubbed “Nyanza Rising: Towards Economic Transformation for Socio-Economic Growth and Development,” is expected to herald a new economic chapter for the region. It will showcase the unique investment opportunities within the region, spanning sectors such as agriculture, tourism, mining, renewable energy, and technology, among others.
The conference also aims to facilitate meaningful dialogue and partnership between government, the private sector, and both local and international investors. It will explore innovative solutions to address challenges and unlock the full economic potential of the Nyanza region.
President Ruto will be the chief guest and speaker during the conference, while former Prime Minister Raila Odinga will be a special guest.
On the first day, which will be moderated by Governor Gladys Wanga, the focus will be on investing in the Blue Economy, with the Permanent Secretary of the State Department for Blue Economy and Fisheries, Betsy Muthoni Njagi, providing an overview of the Blue Economy in perspective.
Similarly, Dr Paul K. Ronoh, Principal Secretary of the State Department for Agriculture, will give a keynote presentation on agricultural transformation and increased investment strategies under the bottom-up economic transformation agenda.
Other presentations will cover topics such as sustainable fish farming, lessons from Victory Farms, and the revitalisation of the sugar industry.
Mr Alfred Ombudo Kombudo, Principal Secretary of the State Department for Trade, will give a keynote presentation on creating a more conducive investment climate, while Dr Raymond Omollo, Principal Secretary of the Interior and National Administration, will address strengthening intergovernmental relationships.
Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi will present a keynote on public-private partnerships and alternative financing mechanisms, while Dr Erick Rutto, Chairman of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, will discuss fostering a favourable commercial, trade, and investment environment for enterprise growth.
Cabinet Secretary for Education, Mr Julius Migos Ogamba, will give a keynote presentation on opportunities for investment in education and skills transfer, while the Cabinet Secretary for Lands, Public Works, Housing, and Urban Development will examine addressing barriers to investment, with lessons drawn from the affordable housing programme.
Expected to grace the conference are Marc Dillard, Charge d’Affaires and Deputy Chief of Mission at the US Embassy; High Commissioner Neil Wigan, British High Commission to Kenya; Ambassador Henrietta Geiger, Head of Delegation of the European Union; and several Cabinet Secretaries.
