Nyong’o woos investors to Kisumu to help boost county’s industrial base
By Kepher Otieno, September 1, 2023Kisumu County has embarked on establishing itself as an investment destination of choice leveraging abundant land and natural resources that have remained underutilised for many years.
Governor Prof Anyang Nyong’o (pictured) said there is still room to build more factories, commercial enterprises, institutions and real estates, courtesy of its available land mass.
He said the lakeside city is one of the best places in Nyanza where new business models can be invented and is ready to be of service to consumers and clients who wish to benefit from its more flexible and cheaper land offers.
Nyong’o said the county government has also embarked on programmes to upgrade the existing tourist attractions in a bid to keep the sector afloat all year round.
“One of the major problems for Kisumu’s tourism sector is seasonality. Many destinations are full of guests during Easter, August, December and New Year holidays, but are virtually empty during the other months,” he stated.
Nyong’o spoke as he unveiled the Kisumu Tourism Week 2023, a celebration that coincides with the United Nations World Tourism Day. The event running from September 23 to 27 is aimed at promoting Kisumu city’s rich tourism and cultural heritage.\
Kisumu Tourism Director Thomas Ouko said activities to accompany the five-day celebrations will include Kisumu City Run, Family Fun Run, Tricycle, for people with disabilities, Nature activities, and Kids Fun Run.
The yearly celebration seeks to address global challenges outlined in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. It also highlights the contribution the tourism industry makes in reaching the sustainable development goals.
Nyong’o said this year’s celebration’s theme “Tourism and Green Investment – Investing in People, Planet and Prosperity” resonates deeply with their vision.
He underscored the need to continue marketing Kisumu’s sites and monumental parks, for both learning and for leisure or siesta, saying there is a lot to experience in the County. Kisumu hosts a number of historical monumental sites, museum and parks.
“Our efforts to promote Kisumu as a prime tourist destination align perfectly with the United Nations’ goals of achieving sustainable development,’’ he said.
From guided tours to Kisumu’s historic landmarks to engaging workshops on eco-friendly travel, there is something for everyone to learn, enjoy, and contribute to, Nyong’o added during the launch of Kisumu City Run, taking place on September 24.
“The run also provides an opportunity to engage with local communities and learn more about their traditions and aspirations,” the governor pointed out.