The Netherlands ambassador to Kenya, Maarten Brouwer, has expressed his commitment to strengthen ties with the Busia County government and support its development agenda.
Speaking to the press after a meeting with the governor at his office on Tuesday, Brouwer cited congestion as a major challenge to the town.
‘We also know the problems facing market activities and the security of women who are involved in cross-border trade,’ he said.
He added that they will partner with the county to address water management and sanitation problems facing the county.
“We are going to engage in a program that will address sanitation problems in the county, he said, urging the private sector to join hands in the exercise.
The ambassador noted that public funds are always scarce, hence the need to mobilize and combine efforts.
“We will also look at the fish market as part of the activities that our country is also supporting in this county,” he said.
The official added that the Dutch government is also working on the youth organization programs.
“We have also been offering training on violent extremism in several parts of the country,” he said, adding that they also looked at Busia County’s priority in Agriculture, especially the production of edible oils and cotton.
Busia Governor Paul Otuoma thanked the ambassador for the visit, adding that the main purpose of the visit was to look at ongoing programs between Kenyans and Dutch people.
‘The issues we discussed touched on social, health, sanitation, food security, One Stop Border Post, water, food security, trade, and stability,’ he said, adding that the two parties agreed to open up new avenues for cooperation.
By Salome Alwanda
