The Nyanza International Investment Conference (NIIC) officially kicked off in Kisumu, bringing together over 600 delegates and key stakeholders to explore investment opportunities and accelerate economic transformation in the region.
The three-day event, themed “Nyanza Rising: Towards Economic Transformation for Socio-Economic Growth and Development,” runs from Thursday to Saturday and features participation from cabinet secretaries, governors, CEOs, investors, scholars, and members of the Nyanza Diaspora. Discussions are focused on unlocking Nyanza’s economic potential through investments in agriculture, renewable energy, tourism, technology, and industrial development.
Education CS Calls for Bold Action to Unlock Nyanza’s Potential
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba called for collaborative efforts to transform Nyanza into an economic powerhouse.
“This conference is more than a gathering of minds—it is a platform for action. We must harness our resources, skills, and networks to unlock the immense potential within this region,” he said.
CS Ogamba highlighted Nyanza’s strong literacy rates, particularly in Kisumu and Kisii counties, as a key driver for economic growth. However, he also pointed out challenges such as Nyanza’s limited contribution to Kenya’s GDP (10%) and its minimal role in the manufacturing sector, urging stakeholders to address these gaps through strategic investments.
Infrastructure Development as a Catalyst for Growth
CS Ogamba emphasized the need for modernized infrastructure, particularly roads and ports, to boost trade and industrialization. He urged investors and policymakers to work together under the Lake Region Economic Bloc (LREB) to attract investments and create a sustainable economic framework.
“These infrastructure investments will position Nyanza as a major contributor to national industrialization and economic growth,” he added.
Establishment of Fish Processing Plants to Boost the Economy
Eliud Owalo, Deputy Chief of Staff and co-patron of the NIIC, outlined a key initiative aimed at enhancing the region’s economy—the establishment of 13 fish processing plants along Lake Victoria.
“We are working with the private sector to set up and operationalize these facilities, strengthening the fish value chain and providing employment opportunities,” Owalo stated.
Banking Sector Pledges Financial Support for Investors
Dennis Volemi, KCB Group Director of Technology, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to supporting Nyanza’s transformation, offering financial products to facilitate investment and economic expansion.
“We are here to support regional leadership, investors, and professionals in driving Nyanza’s economic growth. Our goal is to provide financial solutions that will fuel sustainable development,” Volemi said.
As the Nyanza International Investment Conference continues, participants remain optimistic that the commitments made will lead to real economic progress and sustainable development in the region.
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