The Lake Region Economic Bloc (LREB) strategic plan that defines the roadmap the Bloc will pursue in the next five years has been launched.
LREB chairman and Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya said the strategic plan presents new ways to engage across the region through key projects for funders and investors to consider a collaborative partnership with LREB throughout the five years.
“The LREB Strategic Plan 2022-2027 reflects the concerted effort of the LREB stakeholders whose invaluable input has been incorporated in the document,” said Oparanya during the launch at Kisii Sports Club On Thursday.
During the launch, Oparanya was accompanied by Kisii Governor James Ongwae, Siaya’s Cornel Rasanga and Kisumu Deputy Governor Mathews Owili.
“The LREB Strategic Plan is a step forward in our commitment to effectively operationalize our mandate through aggressive pursuit of the Bloc’s mission which is to achieve sustainable development through effective coordination, innovation, resource mobilization, optimal utilization of shared resources and enhanced socio-economic integration for prosperity in the Lake Region,” he added.
He further added that the successful implementation of this plan will depend on effective collaboration and cooperation from key stakeholders and the adequacy of human and financial resources.
At the same time, four counties are yet to adopt and ratify the Lake Region Economic Bloc Bill 2018, Oparanya.
Oparanya said Bomet, Bungoma, Kericho and Nandi are however at various stages of passing the Bill.
The counties that have adopted and ratified the Bill, 2018 are Busia, Homa Bay, Kakamega, Kisii, Kisumu, Migori, Nyamira, Siaya, Trans Nzoia, Vihiga.
“Having 10 counties pass and ratify the Bill is one of the milestones we have achieved so far,” said Oparanya during the 9th LREB summit at Kisi Sports Club.
During the function, Oparanya noted as the country heads into a transition period, nine governors are completing their second term with five defending their positions.
“We are entering into a transition period and in the next few months, new leadership will be elected in the region. We remain confident that the next leadership will keep up the vision of the Bloc. In the remaining few months of our term, I appeal to all my colleagues in the member counties to remain committed, vigilant and steadfast in achieving our objectives for the prosperity of our people,” said Oparanya.
