Turkana County government has embraced digital platform as it diversifies its ways of attracting investors.
The county has launched an online platform that will provide up-to-date information on trade and investment opportunities in Turkana County.
To ensure the platform yields results, county Chief Officers and Directors have been sensitized on the proposed County Investment Portal.
Ag. Chief Officer of Trade James Lokwale said the portal will allow current and potential investors to access key information such as profiles of flagship projects, investor road maps and facilities, as well as administrative and tax incentives.
“We started off this journey six months ago with International Finance Corporation (IFC), and I am glad that we finally have a prototype of a web portal that we are currently piloting before go-live in June 2022,” said Lokwale.
He said the prototype was a vital step before deployment of the system for use.
“Not only does it ensure it functions correctly, but also teach users how to use the platform and feel part of the journey,” said Lokwale.
He called for support of County Departments in assigning dedicated officers to develop investment-ready content, particularly bankable projects, to be uploaded on the interactive online platform that will support Turkana County Government’s work of investor outreach, retention and after-care strategies.
Economic Planning and ICT Chief Officer Jeremiah Apalia confirmed procurement of ICT infrastructure and services to support set up and deployment of Investment Promotion portal is at advanced stages.
“We will also recognize this project in the on-going review process of CIDP III, as a special consideration”, said Apalia.
The web portal is being developed with the technical support of International Finance Corporation (IFC). Turkana County Government will regularly update the website with statistics and analytical data on the county’s socio-economic development and an investor’s roadmap with information needed for one to start a business venture in Turkana.
Senior Trade Development Officers, County ICT and e-Goverment Officers and Public Communication Officers have also undergone training on effective Business Communication for Investment Promotion as well as a specialized course on the International Certificate of Digital Literacy (ICDL). IFC, the investment arm of the World Bank Group, is also supporting County Government of Turkana in the construction of an integrated Biashara/Huduma Centre, a one-stop shop for business development services both for the refugees and host community in Kakuma.
In attendance were Ruth Emanikor (County Solicitor), Esther Ikaru (Chief Officer, Public Administration & Disaster Management), Felix Kariuki (IFC Client Relationship/Mission Lead), Sebastian Wafula (Investment Promotion Expert, IFC), John Keddy Mwangi (ICT Expert, IFC), Peter Lolem (IFC KKCF Liaison Officer, Turkana and the Consulting firm OTB Africa Limited led by Jane Mbeke (Project Manager).
By Peter Gitonga
