By: Emily Mikwa
The County Government of Kisumu has today marked a significant milestone in regional economic development following the graduation of 18 young entrepreneurs at the Acacia Premier Hotel.
These graduates, who have transitioned from trainees to owners of formal, revenue-generating companies, completed an intensive incubation program designed to bridge the gap between academic theory and market reality.
Supported by Trade Mark Africa and the UN- Master Card Foundation Joint Programme for Youth.
The initiative provided the mentorship and physical space to Smart Aqua Hive, necessary to turn innovative concepts into competitive business entities.
The ceremony showcased a significant shift toward a professionalized, bankable blue economy.
Other companies that previously benefited from the incubation include: Aquabarn limited and Saniwise that have established their business ventures
Dr. Andrew Edewa of Trade Mark Africa, the chief guest, emphasized that Africa’s blue economy, valued at over USD 300 billion, is a vital frontier for food security and trade competitiveness.
He urged the graduates to move beyond job-seeking to become innovators and architects of their own ventures.
This sentiment was echoed by Hon. Ken Onyango, CECM for Agriculture, who noted that sustainable wealth is rooted in technical entrepreneurship, as evidenced by the success of incubated startups like Aquabarn, Saniwise, and Smart Aqua Hive.
Madam Kawira Kiruja, from Trade Mark Africa, noted that the partnership with the County Government was specifically designed to provide the incubation space necessary for youth to become competitive players in the regional market pipeline
Technical advancement took center stage as Madam Susan Adhiambo, Director of Fisheries, detailed the launch of the quality handling system, which introduces standardized equipment and QR code traceability to ensure fish safety and quality.
Furthermore, Director of Crops Walter Odum and Director of Livestock Charles Kakuku highlighted the importance of self-employment through technical expertise, noting that these youth are now the primary agents of Kisumu’s agricultural future.
The event reached its climax with the awarding of certificates and the handing over of essential startup equipment to the graduates.
Chief Officer Erick Omondi Ogallo emphasized the weight of this responsibility, stressing that the tools must be managed with transparency and stewardship to ensure long-term impact. By formalizing their legal and financial structures.
The youth-led companies are now positioned as a critical talent pipeline, ready to drive trade, enhance value addition, and secure food systems across the region.
