The County Government of Homabay has identified four key investment pillars as they embarked on coming to the international investment conference in the region.
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga and County Commissioner Moses Lilan who were instrumental in the preparations for the conference were complete and assured visitors of security and top-notch hospitality.
Governor Wanga said the conference was aimed at serving as a convergence point for both local and foreign investors to identify investment opportunities available in Homa Bay County.
She noted that there will be a display of an array of investment opportunities in the county.
She noted that investors from America, the United Kingdom, the European Union, and other countries were expected to attend the conference.
Wanga said the county had identified four main investment opportunities, namely production of edible oil crops which include oil palm, sunflower and peanut, cotton, aquaculture, and tourism.
The Governor said the county has other investment opportunities but they are prioritizing the four sectors from which investors will tap resources.
“We have identified the four as our top priorities for investment. However, the county has other investment opportunities in which our investors can undertake income-generating activities,” Wanga said.
The Governor said the investment opportunities will benefit both investors and residents.
She said her administration was putting in place the infrastructure for ensuring production of the edible oil on a large scale in the county.
It is expected that the revival of cotton will enhance wealth creation in the county. Cotton used to be a cash cow for many residents of the county about 20 years ago but its production collapsed even though the county is endowed with suitable land for cotton production.
On the blue economy, Lake Victoria and other water bodies in the county are expected to create wealth.
She said proper investment in the Lake resources will turn fortunes in the county.
“Lake Victoria is the chief producer of fish in Kenya. Homa Bay County owns 80 percent of the lake and is a good investment opportunity,” Wanga said.
On tourism, the county has some tourist attractions such as Ruma National Park, the historic Rusinga Island and other Lake Victoria islands, Lake Simbi Nyaima, Gor Mahia Shrine among others.
Wanga appealed to investors to attend the conference and invest in Homa Bay. She also urged residents to be ready to welcome the investors.
“I state with conviction that Homa Bay is the best place for investment. We are strategically located as a gateway to Kenya, favorable agro-climatic conditions, and a steadily growing population. I appeal to various development partners to come to Homa Bay,” Wanga said.
Lilan assured the investors and locals of security during and after the conference.
“Security has been beefed up. Let our guests feel at home as they attend this important conference,” Lilan said.
By Davis Langat
