The government has announced measures to cushion the industrial sector by resuscitating local manufacturing as the country gears to reopen the economy.

According to Labour CS Simon Chelugui his ministry has set up a response team to secure and consolidate proposals to mitigate the effects of Covid -19.

He made the remarks in Kisumu where he was joined by Deputy Governor Dr. Mathew Owili in touring the regions National Industrial Training Authority (NITA) branch.

The government, he said has actively engaged local manufacturers to mass produce face masks, PPE’s and essential items to reduce Covid infections.

To effect this, he assured NITA of his ministry’s support going forward to scale up innovations and technical skills in their facilities countrywide.

In addition, the labour and health ministries will partner to ensure local businesses comply with set government guidelines on covid-19 preparedness before reopening.

In his address Dr. Owili lauded the government’s role in enhancing quality industrial skills in TVET and VTC institutions in the county.

The developments he said are crucial in strengthening the county’s manufacturing sector.

Kisumu he said has experienced exponential growth in light of recent mega projects rolled by the national government and development partners, this he added has uniquely placed Kisumu as the economic capital in western region.

Joining the tour were; PS State Department of labour Eng. Peter Tum,(NITA);Board Chairman Dr. Kamau Gachigi,Ag Director General Stephen Ogenga,County Commissioner Madam Susan Waweru among other officials from the national &county government.

In a joint address the leaders urged workers to observe   outlined government guidelines as they work to flatten the curve.

By Collins Owuor

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