By Bellah Ikida
The Governor of Kisumu, H.E Prof Anyang Nyong’o has approved the upcoming Business Ecosystem Summit, set to take place from August 6th–8th, emphasizing its potential to enhance regional cooperation, investment opportunities, and market accessibility for businesses.
On Friday, the team from the Integrated Marketing and Communications (IMC) People Ltd, led by CEO Jeanette Oromo, Managing Director Richard Oluoch, and Head of Communications Charlton Okumu paid a courtesy call to Governor Nyong’o to discuss the upcoming summit.
During the meeting, the governor proposed expanding regional trade, suggesting that businesses should look beyond local markets and strengthen commercial ties with neighboring countries like Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda.
He pointed out how agricultural products already flow across borders and emphasized the need to formalize and enhance these trade routes.
“What about trying to use this summit to promote and encourage Eastern African co-operation, you as the IMC people must clearly be region- focused, Africa- focused. Because there is a lot of potential here in Africa.” H.E. the governor added.
The governor mentioned the funding challenges African countries face, particularly the reliance on World Bank financing. He encouraged businesses to explore African-led financial solutions, citing institutions such as the East African Development Bank (EADB) and the African Development Bank (AFDB).
A key concern raised was the scheduling of the Business Summit, which falls just one week before the Devolution Conference, scheduled for August 12th–15th in Homabay.
Despite the tight time frame, the governor approved the summit, saying one week is more than enough, recognizing its significance in strengthening Kisumu’s economy through investment and collaboration.
With the governor’s backing, the Business Ecosystem Summit is expected to attract investors, provide funding opportunities, and improve market access, paving the way for economic growth in Kisumu and the broader East African region.
The governor was also joined by Farida Salim, County Executive Committee Member for Trade and Tourism and the Chief of Staff Aloice Ager.