- The governor encouraged investors and partners to consider establishing a leather tanning factory close to the facility
- He implored the partners such as the Kenya Investment Authority and the Kenya Leather Development Council to partner with the county
Image: CURTESY
Isiolo on Monday hosted the neighbouring counties of Samburu and Marsabit for the regional investors' conference.
The summit seeks to unlock the economic potential of the northern region, even as stakeholders called for the widening and strengthening of partnerships.
Participating counties showcased the numerous opportunities that make the region an attractive investment destination.
Speaking during the conference's opening, Isiolo Governor Abdi Guyo stressed the need to invest more in the livestock sector, which is the backbone of the economy in the Northern region.
His administration was in the final stages of operationalising the Isiolo Export Abattoir, which is expected to benefit pastoralist communities.
“I ask our partners to empower cooperatives from across our 10 wards that will be linked to our state-of-the-art abattoir. This will empower our people by increasing their income,” Guyo said.
The facility has the potential to employ 300 people and can slaughter 10,000 goats, 500 cows and 300 camels per day.
It will also generate a significant volume of hides and skins in the process.
The county chief encouraged investors and partners to consider establishing a leather tanning factory close to the facility.
Partners such as the Kenya Investment Authority and the Kenya Leather Development Council should partner with the government, he added.
This will ensure that the local community maximises on the benefits from the potential opportunities.
The governor reiterated the resolve of the county leadership to intensify advocacy for the extension of the Isiolo International Airport runway.
He said this would allow larger aircraft to land and take off.
Pending work would soon commence after President William Ruto's intervention, he said.
“Once fully operational, the airport is expected to unlock the potential of the region, especially the abattoir, as fresh meat and meat products will be exported to the international market through it.”
The county boss further noted that a recent survey by the Ministry of Mining revealed that Isiolo is rich in mineral deposits including coltan, gold, gemstones, copper, graphite, gypsum and limestone.
He urged investors to also consider putting their money in the mining industry, which will also accord residents an opportunity to tap into the wealth.
Development partners as well as the administrations of Samburu and Marsabit should take advantage of the opportunities and form enduring partnerships that will lead to the economic transformation of the three counties.
Several development partners, including representatives from the Usaid, attended the conference.
Coordinator in charge of resilience and learning in Kenya and East Africa, Jennifer Maurer, hailed the three counties for their seamless working relationship with development partners.
Usaid was pleased with the projects accomplished in collaboration with the devolved governments, she said.
Maurer called for continued partnerships to empower local communities and transform their lives.
The conference was also attended by a delegation from the county of Marsabit, headed by Deputy Governor Solomon Gubo, and another from Samburu headed by county secretary Wilson Lesuuda.
Other leaders in attendance included Isiolo Deputy Governor James Lowasa, speaker Mohamed Qoto, secretary Dhade Boru and his deputy Mohammed Boru, a host of MCAs, CECMs, chief officers and directors from the three counties.