Preparations are in top gear ahead of the groundbreaking ceremony of the County Aggregation and Industrial Park (CAIP) in Bomachoge Borabu Sub County, Kisii County.
Investments, Trade, and Industry Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria is expected to grace the occasion this coming Wednesday alongside Kisii Governor Simba Arati and other dignitaries.
Speaking after supervising ongoing works at the grounds on Sunday, Kisii County Executive Committee (CEC) Member for Trade, Tourism, Industry, and Marketing Cyrus Nyabicha said the county is well prepared for the commencement of the project.
Mr. Nyabicha noted that the park will guarantee the aggregation of agricultural goods and their direct sale to markets inside and outside Kisii through a network of global logistical firms.
“This investment in aggregation and industrial parks is one of the most sustainable efforts by the national and county governments to shape Kenya’s economy by targeting specific inclusive economic activities,” said the CEC.
Kisii is among the counties targeted in the first phase of the project, which is aimed at broadening opportunities for Kenyans and boosting economic growth.
The CEC added that the area will be transformed completely, and the local people, including women and youth, will be given first priority for long- and short-term employment opportunities.
Meanwhile, the residents of Tongeri in Bokimonge and Bombaba wards in the same sub-county have unanimously endorsed the construction of the CAIP, saying its establishment will bring numerous development projects to the remote area.
Speaking separately during a public participation exercise conducted last week on Friday, the residents lauded the governor for fast-tracking the project, adding that they are already reaping the benefits since the contractor is engaging them at the initial preparation stages.
One of the residents, Mr. Charles Ondara, said the establishment of the project is a big relief since their community, which has not benefited from a mega project for decades, will enjoy the benefits that come with it.
“Our youth who have been going to other towns to search for jobs have something to smile about. I thank President William Ruto and Governor Arati for bringing such development to this area,” said Ondara.
As part of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), roads in the area will be developed, there will be piped water, modern schools will be built, and there will be an enhanced electricity supply, among other developments.
The construction of County Industrial and Aggregation Parks is one of the ways the Kenya Kwanza administration is seeking to boost agriculture and create additional jobs in the country.
The project is a partnership between the State Department for Industry and the Council of Governors, and each county is expected to allocate Sh. 250 million towards the initiative, with the national government matching a similar amount.
By Mercy Osongo
