Northern counties to hold investment forum

Communities in Kenya's semi-arid lands are set to hold an investment forum to explore innovative solutions to enhance climate resilience. 

This is as they continue to face a growing threat from climate change with increased droughts, erratic rainfall patterns, and land degradation which pose significant challenges to livelihoods, food security, and overall well-being.

County governments of Lamu, Tana River, Garissa, Wajir, and Mandera will use the forum slated for June 27 to identify the unique challenges faced by ASAL communities in the context of climate change and showcase successful climate resilience initiatives.

They also intend to facilitate dialogue between government, NGOs, researchers, the private sector, and local communities on practical solutions for building long-term resilience.

The event under the theme 'Unveiling Opportunities: Redefining Northern Kenya as an Investable Destination' is open to the public and will feature keynote addresses from leading experts in climate change adaptation.

Panel discussions on topics such as sustainable water management, drought-resistant agriculture, animal health and breeding will be prioritised.

The over 500 delegates will also explore financing mechanisms and investment opportunities to stimulate economic growth and development along the LAPSET Corridor including the potential impacts of attracting the private sector to invest in these counties.

Lamu governor Issa Timamy said their region is rich in potential and brimming with opportunities and this unique platform to discuss and explore transformative strategies will drive sustainable development.

"As a region, we are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. We must develop and implement strategies to mitigate these and create a resilient environment that supports our agricultural and livestock sectors,'' he said.

According to him, tourism, for instance, holds tremendous potential for Lamu County, and developing and promoting this sector can create new economic opportunities and jobs for people.

Tana River County governor Dhadho Gaddae said the conference is more than just a gathering; it is a testament to a shared vision of a thriving, inclusive economy.

"We are dedicated to creating an ecosystem where businesses can flourish. In Tana River County, we are keen on promoting mining and manufacturing activities as a key to diversifying our economy,'' he said. 

Garissa Governor Nathif Adam said the region is endowed with abundant natural resources that, if properly harnessed, can significantly contribute to our economic development.

“Together, through this conference, let us embark on this journey of growth and transformation, paving the way for a brighter, more prosperous future for the five counties,'' Nathif said. 

"I encourage investors to explore the unique opportunities Garissa County has to offer such as those presented by the LAPSET Corridor."

He added that this strategic infrastructure project can greatly enhance connectivity, facilitate trade, and attract investments.

Mandera governor Mohamed Adan Khalif said that by investing in Northern Kenya counties, a more equitable and prosperous society is created where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

"One of our key focus areas in Mandera during this conference will be on opportunities to enhance livestock production which can help our pastoralist communities achieve economic resilience and stability, even in the face of climatic challenges."

USAID Kuza is a key facilitator for the Lamu, Tana River, Garissa, Wajir, and Mandera County Investment Conference.

Venny Mayaka, the deputy chief party, USAID Kuza on his part termed the forum a crucial step towards building a more resilient future for Kenya's ASAL communities.

"By working together, we can ensure these regions are equipped to adapt and thrive."

This Lamu, Tana River, Garissa, Wajir, and Mandera County Investment Conference comes soon after USAID Kuza launched its new climate finance window last month, which earmarks $6 million (Sh810 million) dedicated to providing capital to those who are driving climate change adaptation and mitigation in Northern Kenya.

It employs market-based approaches to accelerate Northern Kenya's self-reliance through building resilience and reducing the need for humanitarian assistance.

The programme works in 10 other arid and semi-arid counties of northern Kenya (Garissa, Isiolo, Lamu, Mandera, Marsabit, Samburu, Tana River, Turkana, Wajir, and West Pokot).

USAID Kuza also manages the Impact for Northern Kenya Fund an impact investment wholesale financing vehicle that lends catalytic capital to financial institutions and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

The conference will be held in Isiolo.

Other areas of discussion during the Investment Conference will include how to incorporate a gender and youth perspective into agricultural development initiatives, and overcoming barriers for farmers and pastoralists to access markets and finance.