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The United States has agreed to partner with Nakuru County Government to implement four major development projects aimed at spurring economic growth. 

Some of the proposed areas of partnership and collaboration include attainment of Universal Health Coverage, agriculture, technology and economic empowerment among others. 

US Ambassador Meg Whitman said Kenya and the US have enjoyed cordial relations cemented through various collaborations that play an important role in realisation of socio-economic development goals. 

“Kenya has been working together with the US as a strategic partner and today being in Nakuru County is part of collaborations for development, we intend to focus on key areas to ensure we improve the livelihoods of residents here,” Whitman said. 

The envoy said the US Government was willing to pump in more resources to improve technology within Nakuru, adding that there is more relevance of technology to all the fields including business growth. 

“There is an opportunity for business outsourcing by use of technology. We will be working to bring more technology to Nakuru, despite Kenya leading in this sector in the East Africa region, more focus has been on Nairobi and we intend to bring Nakuru on board,” said Whitman. 

On her part, Governor Susan Kihika while lauding the envoy, expressed her gratitude to the US Government for the continued partnership, which she said would go a long way in improving the lives of residents. 

She called for partnership in strengthening agriculture to ensure there is food security, and market creation of crops such as pyrethrum, which she said will boost the farmers’ morale into planting more of the crop. 

“We want to bring back pyrethrum in Nakuru, the demand is more than the supply and something needs to be done to ensure our farmers get back to growing the same, these are some of the areas we are seeking partnership with the US,” said Kihika. 

Speaking at a joint press conference with Whitman after meeting local women leaders at the county headquarters, Kihika reaffirmed the commitment of the county governments in championing business opportunities for women, girls and the youth. 

On the rising cases of new HIV infections among the young people, Kihika said the US had agreed to continue sponsoring HIV prevention and awareness campaigns and ensure medication is readily available for those infected. 

“The younger population between the age of 14-35 is witnessing a rise in infection which is an area of concern. We will be working in collaboration with all relevant stakeholders to ensure the services for prevention are emphasised,” she stated. 

In addition, she said the county will set aside funds to bridge the gap.