The Lake Victoria Basin Commission has taken over its new headquarters offices in Kisumu in a major milestone towards the envisioned full integration of the East African Community.
The ultra-modern head offices built at a cost of at least a $3.9 million (Sh634 million) facility sits on a 2.8-acre parcel along the shores of Lake Victoria, offering a picturesque view of the waters dotted with fishing canoes.
The new building features modern office spaces for various departments under the regional commission, conference facilities for hosting high-level regional engagements and dedicated spaces for teams managing the commission’s diverse projects and programmes.
LVBC executive secretary Masinde Bwire described the building as a symbol of unity among East African Community (EAC) partner states and a reflection of their commitment to regional cooperation.
“This building is the icon of East African integration. It represents our commitment to regional cooperation, environmental sustainability and institutional growth. We are proud of the taxpayers of East Africa whose contributions made this possible,” he said.
Bwire said the facility would not only provide space for the commission’s operations but also serve as a hub where regional policies are shaped, directives issued and guiding principles formulated to drive sustainable growth.
“This is more than just an office block. It is where ideas will be born and decisions made that safeguard the future of the Lake Victoria Basin and its people,” he said.
He said while Sh634 million has already been invested in phases one and two, a third phase valued at $1.4 million (Sh180 million) was set to begin next month, bringing the total cost of the project to $5.5 million (Sh892 million).
The official launch, he disclosed was expected later this year, with President William Ruto, in his capacity as EAC Summit chairman, presiding over the ceremony alongside other regional leaders.
“This headquarters is for the entire region. We expect heads of state to join President Ruto at the launch to affirm our collective commitment to integration and sustainability,” Bwire said.
Public Works PS Joel Arumonyang, who officially handed over the facility, praised the technical teams from the state department for completing the project on time and to the required standards.
“I want to appreciate and congratulate the Lake Victoria Basin Commission on receiving this building, which the State Department of Public Works was proud to manage. Over the past three years, we have worked closely with the commission to make this a reality,” he said.
Arumonyang said the project demonstrates the capacity and professionalism of the State Department of Public Works to deliver projects of such magnitude.
He expressed confidence the new headquarters would empower LVBC to advance its vision of sustainable development, protection of Lake Victoria’s ecosystem and deeper regional cooperation.
“This project has come at the right time and will strengthen the commission’s ability to deliver for East Africa and beyond,” Arumonyang said.
Established in 2001, the LVBC is the only East African Community agency with headquarters in Kenya tasked with the coordination of sustainable development and management of Lake Victoria and its basin resources.
The new headquarters cements Kisumu’s status as a regional hub and is expected to become the nerve centre for the commission’s future initiatives.
