By Matilda Atieno
Kisumu Governor and the Chair of the Lake Region Economic Block (LREB) Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o today hosted the Business Ecosystem Summit the first of its kind in Kenya held at Ciala Resort in Kisumu City.
Organized by the IMC People in partnership with the Lake Region Economic Bloc (LREB), the summit is aimed at unlocking the potential of collaborative networks as a way of new competition in business.
The summit was graced by the Cabinet Secretary for Finance Prof. Njunguna Ndung’u, the Governors from the LREB including H.E Kenneth Lusaka of Bungoma who is also the Vice-chair of LREB,
H.E Wilber Otichilo of Vihiga, H.E Amos Nyaribo of Nyamira, H.E James Orengo of Siaya, the Deputy Governors, Dr. Mathew Owili of Kisumu, Dr.Joseph Mahiri of Migori County, and H.E Hon Philomenah Bineah of Trans-nzoia County.
Other guests present included aspiring entrepreneurs, business leaders, investors, institutional leaders, government representatives, and other stakeholders to exchange ideas, learn from experts, and explore opportunities for growth and collaboration in various industries.
The summit-themed ‘’Partnering for A Better Future’’ is in line with the ongoing key government reforms aimed at stimulating business growth across the country and bolstering economic independence and prosperity.
While highlighting the concept of the business ecosystem, Governor Nyong’o in his opening remarks emphasized collaboration as the future of business and economic growth within Kisumu County and beyond.
“I have come to witness, firsthand, the power of collaboration to spur growth. This is where the power of collaboration shines brightest. It is no longer feasible for businesses to operate in silos, detached from the larger tapestry of the economy.” Says Governor Nyong’o.
The Governor acknowledged that the County Governments are uniquely placed in the position to support growth and innovation for the businesses within their borders by providing efficient and transparent processes that are the lifelines of any vibrant business ecosystem.
The Governor also took the opportunity to welcome all to the planned Kisumu Economic Forum to be held on the 22nd and 23rd of November this year and as Vice President for East Africa under the framework of UCLG Africa, he extended an invitation to the upcoming 3rd Trade Fair convened by Afreximbank and AfcTA to be held in Cairo from 9th to 15th November this year.
On his part, Governor Lusaka also took the opportunity to announce the first-ever sugar conference set to be held in Kakamega on September 8, 2023, where Fourteen sugar cane growing counties will converge.
The summit is not just a solution; it is a statement aimed at changing the narrative, driving growth, and ensuring that Kisumu and the lake region’s entrepreneurial spirit is not only recognized but celebrated and supported locally and internationally.
Ciala Resort
1st September 2023