Investment
Kitui governor Dr Julius Malombe has reiterated his government’s commitment and unwavering resolve to establish a favourable business environment to attract and retain both local and foreign investors in the county.
The governor while giving the assurance during the local investors’ sensitization conference in Kitui town, wowed tens of investors in attendance to invest in the county noting that it has so many unexploited opportunities in different economic sectors.
During the one-day forum, the governor observed perspectives on the industrialization agenda, investment and business opportunities in Kitui County. He further recalled efforts that the county has made to lure both local and foreign investors in the county including preparation of framework guidelines for businesses and investments.
“My election manifesto dubbed ‘The Kitui Promise’has highlighted the commitment to strengthen trade and investments and support Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the County,” he said.
Kitui County governor Dr Julius Malombe with some investors who attended the Investors Sensitization Conference being shown some of industrial products produced at the county during the forum.
“Further, Kitui Vision for Economic and Social Transformation (KIVEST 2025) blueprint zones out Kitui County into six Economic and Investment Zones (EIZs) namely Kyuso-Mumoni-Tseikuru, Mui Basin, Mwingi Town and Environs, Kitui County headquarters and Environs, Kanyangi-Kwa Vonza Kanyonyoo, and Mutomo-Kanziku-Ikutha EIZs”, Dr Malombe added.
The governor also noted that the establishment of County Aggregation and Industrial Parks (CAIPs) is key in driving the industrialization agenda espoused in the 4th Medium Term Plan of Kenya Vision 2030.
He noted that the County Integrated Development Plan (2023-2027) provides a framework for development guidelines on industrial zones and a policy framework on value addition. The Kitui County Aggregation and Industrial Park (K-CAIP) at Kanyonyoo, he added, also creates a conducive environment for investors to unleash their full potential.
“My government is driving the industrialization agenda by establishing appropriate support infrastructure and creating an enabling environment,” he noted. “I would like to emphasize the fact that the government is not an investor. We have seen billions of public funds going to waste when the Government invests. Public funds are meant to support public goods like roads, water, electricity and safe borders among others,” he stated.
The Kitui County governor who is serving his second term in office, underscored that during his first term, he set up a futuristic plan of the county’s abundant resources by mapping the region’s unique opportunities through the KIVEST agenda.
“I believe we collectively share a desire for our county to be a better place to do business, invest, innovate and create jobs for our youth. In line with this, I desire to work together with the business community to fulfill the Kitui vision of being a prosperous County.” The governor said.
The county boss also reiterated that his government aspires to bring Kitui County’s momentum back and that will be achieved through the implementation of the 16-point development agenda (The Kitui Promise).
However, Dr Malombe lamented that the Country is hurting under a high debt burden and the rising cost of living, a situation compounded by high interest rates and youth unemployment, among others. The governor urged the participants to partner with the County administration and work smart in order to awaken the entrepreneurial spirit particularly amongst the young entrepreneurs.