Addis Ababa – In a move to strengthen its international ties, Ethiopia, through its Foreign Minister Taye Atske-Selassie, engaged in diplomatic discussions with the ambassadors of Jordan and Kuwait. The meetings underscored Ethiopia’s ambition to bolster its multifaceted relationships with these nations. Highlighting a key development, Minister Taye announced the approval of the Labor Employment Agreement with Jordan by the Council of Ministers, proposing such agreements as a foundation for deeper bilateral relations. On the Kuwaiti front, the ambassador indicated that a similar labor agreement is anticipated to be signed soon, paving the way for enhanced cooperation between Ethiopia and Kuwait.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, these agreements are seen as strategic moves to solidify Ethiopia’s relations with Jordan and Kuwait, reflecting the country’s broader foreign policy objectives to foster strong and mutually beneficial partnerships.
KITALE, Kenya – The County Government of Trans Nzoia has announced plans to finalize the construction of Masinde Muliro and Railway Markets in Kitale Town, marking a significant step towards enhancing the local business environment. Governor George Natembeya, during a meeting with the Kenya Chamber of Commerce Trans Nzoia Chapter, conveyed the administration’s dedication to providing a supportive atmosphere for traders to boost productivity.
According to Kenya News Agency, the completion of the market projects will be followed by a transparent and fair allocation process for market stalls and spaces, directly addressing concerns raised by local traders. Recent social media reports suggested that cartels had been pre-allocated stalls in these markets, intending to lease them to traders upon completion. Natembeya refuted these claims, emphasizing a merit-based distribution that excludes potential exploitation by landlords.
Furthermore, the Governor highlighted that 167 traders, displaced for the construction of the Masinde Muliro Market, might receive priority in the allocation process. He disclosed that construction work on both markets is approximately 80 percent complete, signaling a nearing fruition of the projects.
Natembeya also touched upon the county’s revenue collection challenges, revealing plans to plug existing gaps to support ongoing and future development initiatives. Despite the potential to raise Sh 800 million, the current collection stands at Sh 500 million, a shortfall that poses a risk to the county’s development agenda.
Titus Kilongi, Chairperson of the Kenya Chamber of Commerce Trans Nzoia Chapter, echoed the business community’s commitment to collaborating with the government by ensuring timely revenue payments. This partnership is crucial for realizing the county’s development goals and fostering a thriving business ecosystem in Kitale.
The efforts to complete Masinde Muliro and Railway Markets are part of Trans Nzoia County’s broader strategy to improve infrastructure and services for its residents and the business community, aiming to stimulate economic growth and enhance the quality of life in the region.
HOMA BAY, Kenya – The Homa Bay County Government has officially commenced its international investment conference, highlighting four primary sectors for potential investment. Governor Gladys Wanga, alongside County Commissioner Moses Lilan, confirmed the conference’s initiation, emphasizing the region’s readiness to welcome both local and international investors with guaranteed security and hospitality.
According to Kenya News Agency, the conference aims to unite investors from around the globe, including those from America, the United Kingdom, and the European Union, to explore various investment opportunities within Homa Bay County. The focus will be on the production of edible oil crops such as oil palm, sunflower, and peanut; cotton cultivation; aquaculture; and tourism as the county’s main investment priorities.
Wanga detailed the strategic selection of these sectors based on their potential to drive economic growth and provide substantial benefits to both investors and the local community. The county is especially keen on reviving cotton production, which had been a significant source of income for residents two decades ago but has since seen a decline despite the availability of suitable land for cultivation.
The investment in Lake Victoria, constituting 80 percent of the lake’s Kenyan territory under Homa Bay’s jurisdiction, is seen as a pivotal move towards leveraging the blue economy. The lake’s resources are anticipated to significantly contribute to wealth creation within the county.
Furthermore, the conference will showcase Homa Bay’s tourist attractions, including Ruma National Park, Rusinga Island, Lake Simbi Nyaima, and the Gor Mahia Shrine, among other sites, as key areas for investment in the tourism sector.
Governor Wanga expressed her conviction that Homa Bay stands as an optimal location for investment due to its strategic positioning, favorable agricultural conditions, and a growing population. She invited development partners and investors to consider Homa Bay for their future projects.
County Commissioner Lilan reassured attendees of the comprehensive security measures in place for the duration of the conference, encouraging visitors to experience the warmth and hospitality of Homa Bay.
The conference represents a significant step for Homa Bay in attracting international investment to these critical sectors, aiming to catalyze economic development and improve the livelihoods of its residents.