The inaugural Nyanza International Investment Conference, held from February 6th to 8th, 2025, in Kisumu City, marked a pivotal moment for the region’s economic landscape. Organized by the Nyanza Professionals’ Forum (NPF), the conference aimed to unlock and showcase Nyanza’s vast investment potential, aligning with Kenya’s vision of becoming the gateway to Africa and beyond.
Grand Opening and Distinguished Attendees
The conference commenced with a grand ceremony attended by a host of dignitaries, including:
- Hon. John Mbadi – Cabinet Secretary for National Treasury
- Hon. Wycliffe Oparanya – Cabinet Secretary for MSMEs
- Hon. Alice Wahome – Cabinet Secretary for Lands, Public Works, Housing and Urban Development of Kenya
- Hon. Lee Kinyanjui – Cabinet Secretary for Trade
- Hon. Ogambi – Cabinet Secretary for
Governors from the Lake Region Economic Bloc (LREB), Deputy Chief of Staff Eliud, and key officials from the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) were also present. The Deputy President reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering a conducive business environment through strategic partnerships and enhanced infrastructure.
Focus on Key Economic Sectors
The three-day conference featured insightful discussions on investment prospects across various sectors, including:
- Manufacturing
- Agribusiness
- Blue Economy
- Tourism
- Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
Industry leaders provided valuable insights, positioning Nyanza as a premier hub for economic transformation and sustainable development.
Empowering MSMEs
A significant highlight was the emphasis on Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). With support from Kingdom Bank, KNCCI facilitated the participation of over 15 MSMEs, providing them with a platform to showcase their products, explore investment opportunities, and connect with potential partners. Government officials engaged directly with these exhibitors, discussing strategies to enhance market access, financing, and policy support, thereby reaffirming the commitment to strengthening the MSME ecosystem.
Nyanza’s Strategic Advantages
Nyanza’s strategic location along Lake Victoria, the world’s second-largest freshwater lake, offers immense opportunities in the blue economy, particularly in fisheries, transport, and tourism. The region boasts a high literacy rate of 87.5% and is home to eight universities and several technical and vocational education and training centers, producing a skilled workforce ready to drive industrial growth. Additionally, Nyanza serves as a regional education and technology hub, attracting investments in ICT and infrastructure development.
The Nyanza International Investment Conference 2025 successfully highlighted the region’s investment potential and set the stage for future economic growth. By fostering collaborations between government, private sector, and local enterprises, Nyanza is poised to become a significant player in Kenya’s economic landscape, offering diverse opportunities for investors and contributing to the nation’s broader development goals.
