Kenya: Nyanza International Investment Conference kicked off in Kisumu on Thursday, Feb 06, 2025. It was the inaugural event that brought together the local and international investors, government officials and private sector leaders to explore and capitalise on the economic potential of the regions.
It was a three-day event which was based on the theme, ‘Nyanza Rising: Towards Economic Transformation for Socio-Economic Growth and Development’, that aims to showcase investment opportunities across the six Nyanza counties of Kisumu, Siaya, Homa Bay, Migori, Kisii and Nyamira.
Futhermore, over 700 delegates, comprised of local and international investors, development partners as well as national and county government officials, who will explore various investment opportunities in Nyanza and the wider Lake Region Economic Bloc (LREB) with a view to signing pacts that will give birth to socio-economic programmes.
Education Cabinet Secretary (CS) – Julius Ogamba, was the chief guest during the opening of the conference and said that the conference was organised by the Nyanza Professionals Forum and LREB who presented an opportunity for the six counties in Nyanza and the wider LREB region to leverage the collective resources to transform the region.
Ogamba added that the region was endowed with huge investment opportunities across the key sectors including agriculture and renewable energy. It also includes the major sectors such as tourism, mining, technology, infrastructure and the blue economy, adding up to the conference that will connect investors, government and development partners to explore and capitalise on the opportunities.
He added, “I am confident that the discussions and partnerships fostered at the conference will be the beginning of a transformative journey for Nyanza and the Lake Region Economic Bloc.” He assured that together they will harness the potential of the region and will make a meaningful contribution to national development goals of Kenya.
Ogambe mentioned that Lake Victoria, presented a huge opportunity for investors who were keen on rolling out the projects in the blue economy and tourism, with the vast arable land region, being a key asset in rolling out the agro-processing projects.
The strategic position of the region provides advantage to the investors taking up the opportunities, set to access the markets in East Africa and Central Africa regions.
Considering this, Kenya Ports Authority also emphasised that the transport system in Lake Victoria is crucial for facilitating trade and ensuring that goods move efficiently to and from the ports, with many investment opportunities largely untapped.
Managing Director – Capt. William Ruto made the remarks while addressing the ongoing Nyanza International Investment Conference in Kisumu. He reiterated the commitment of the authority to enhance the cargo movements across Lake Victoria, which would boost trade within the neighbouring countries such as Uganda, Tanzania and Rwanda.
However, President of Kenya – William Samoei Ruto is all set to officially open the conference tomorrow.