Kisumu seals multi-billion shilling deals with investors
Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o delivers his speech during the inaugural Kisumu International Conference.
What you need to know:
- Kisumu county government makes commitment to supporting private sector providing conducive business environment.
- University of Nairobi’s Institute of Climate Change and Adaptation has set aside Sh40 million.
Kisumu County has sealed 12 deals and commitments with private investors aimed at supporting various sectors of the devolved economy.
The multi-billion shilling pacts signed at the end of the inaugural three-day Kisumu International Conference will see a number of players setting up shops at the lakeside city in a move aimed at creating a number of employment opportunities.
Speaking during the closure of the global business forum, Deputy Governor Mathews Owili expressed county government's commitment to supporting private sector players by providing a conducive business environment for potential investors.
“The deals have touched on different sectors including health, education, housing and tourism among others,” said Dr Owili.
The agreements signed by Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o and various players include Sh500,000 for afforestation programme in public spaces and institutions by Equity Bank Foundation while University of Nairobi’s Institute of Climate Change and Adaptation has set aside Sh40 million.
On the other hand, Med Aditus has unveiled plans to establish a pharmaceutical plant in the county at a venue and cost to yet be revealed.
Delivery of medicine in rural areas will also be done using drowns through an initiative supported by SkyCat Drowns as Local Authority Pension Fund (Lapfund) has committed to construct affordable housing project expected to solve accommodation challenges in the lakeside city.
On the other hand, Rocky Beach Hotel and Resort and Marion Hotels are scheduled to sink Sh5 billion in the hospitality industry and boost tourism industry of Western Kenya.
Through the Sh2.5 billion investment by Silk Mobile, Kisumu County Attorney Idris Omondi revealed that the investment will create 2,500 jobs in the manufacturing of mobile phones, laptops, smart television sets and fridges.
“We are also expecting to sign a Sh3 million memorandum of understanding with Maji Milele next year in a move which will ensure provision of water ATMs in 10 dispensaries, in the informal centers to reduce water bills,” he said during the event held at Ciala Resort on Wednesday.
Members of the Jua Kali sector are also set to benefit following a partnership with Zamara which will promote affordable credit and saving schemes for micro, small and medium enterprises.
Kisumu Environment Executive Salmon Orimba while lauding Sh2.3 billion investment by Blue Gold said the project will help improve development of infrastructure in the satellite town of Kisumu.
The plan entails extraction and distribution of water in Ahero, Kombewa, Katito, Muhoroni and Maseno.
To promote adaptation of degraded hills, Kibos Sugar and Allied Industries has offered to adopt Kajulu hills for afforestation.
Mr Orimba stated that the county will put up a legislation and agreement to legalise the initiative.
