- Governors had decried exclusion from the planning of the conference by the event organisers.
- The conference is scheduled to take place from June 28 and 29 in Kisumu.
Image: HANDOUT
The Nyanza Professional's Forum has committed to engaging all stakeholders in the six Nyanza counties in preparations and execution of the inaugural Nyanza International Investment Conference (NIIC).
The forum’s chairman Japh Olende said they are willing and ready to re-engage with the governors to ensure smooth collaboration as they embark on the final leg of conference preparation.
Olende said the programme has been designed to assign key roles to all governors as both speakers and panellists.
“We believe that through collective efforts and open dialogue, we can achieve the conference's objectives and contribute to the sustainable development of the Nyanza region,” Olende said.
His remarks come hot on the heels of a statement by governors from the region who decried exclusion from the planning of the conference by the event organisers.
The statement was signed by Kisumu Governor Anyang' Ngong'o, James Orengo of Siaya, Ochilo Ayacko of Migori, Gladys Wanga of Homa Bay, Simba Arati of Kisii and Nyamira's Amos Nyaribo.
“To be clear, we have not received any formal briefings or invitations from the organisers, yet they are portraying us as participants,” the statement reads.
"Learning about the conference through media publications, featuring our images, without our consent, is unacceptable.”
The conference is scheduled to take place from June 28 and 29 in Kisumu.
On Friday, Olende said the forum acknowledges that the progress made in the country through devolution has made it possible to convene the conference.
“We support devolution and all its structures, and championing investment in the six counties is crucial for the success of devolution,” he said in a statement.
The statement was also signed by co-chairman George Omolo MacOdawa.
MacOdawa noted that investment priorities from each county have been catalogued for discussion with potential investors prior to, during, and after the conference.
The conference aims to discuss the development priorities of the Nyanza Region, aligning with the County Integrated Development Plans.
“The planning of this significant event has been participatory, involving all relevant stakeholders and governors, to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive approach to stimulating sustainable development in the region,” MacOdawa added.
He said the forum is grateful for the support received from the counties and their readiness to embrace this initiative.