NAIROBI: The Northern Corridor Integration Projects (NCIP) partner states are gearing up for a significant Heads of State Summit in Rwanda, marking a return to high-level discussions on regional development after a six-year hiatus. The summit aims to rejuvenate efforts and commitments towards implementing key infrastructure projects across the region.
According to Kenya News Agency, Lands and Physical Planning Principal Secretary Generali Nixon Korir chaired a meeting of Principal Secretaries and Permanent Secretaries from NCIP partner states, including Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, and South Sudan. The meeting focused on reviewing Land Cluster projects as part of preparations for the upcoming 15th Heads of State Summit.
Korir emphasized the critical role land plays in the Northern Corridor projects and expressed his commitment to collaborating with partner states on land acquisition issues. He encouraged regular meetings to ensure effective project delivery and solutions to land acquisition challenges that hinder
timely implementation of regional projects.
Ambassador Richard Kabonero, head of the Ugandan delegation, praised Kenya for hosting the Land for Infrastructure Corridor Cluster meeting and commended the dedication to preparing essential documentation. Kabonero noted Uganda’s recent contract with a Turkish firm for constructing a Standard Gauge Railway as part of infrastructure development efforts.
Donne Besigye, head of the Rwandan delegation, reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment to supporting the cluster through sustainable land management projects, aiming to bolster regional integration and economic prosperity. The NCIP, initiated in 2013, consists of 14 cluster groups addressing various sectors, with land being a priority for regional project facilitation.
Member states have committed to prioritizing initiatives such as community land registration, project valuation, and geospatial data sharing, underscoring the NCIP’s role in enhancing regional development and integration.
