President Uhuru Kenyatta is in Kisumu for the official opening of the 9th Edition of Africities conference in the lakeside city.
Some of the delegates started arriving as early as 6.30 am at Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium, where the event is being held.
Among the high-level dignitaries who have arrived at the summit are former President of the Republic of Seychelles Danny Faure and the President of United cities and local governments (UCLG) Africa.
Others are a delegation of governors from Egypt who include; Dr Manal Awad of Damietta, Abdelhamid Elhaggan of Al Qalyoubia and Ambassador Mohamed Higazy.
Local leaders, including Devolution CS Eugene Wamalwa, Environment CS Keriako Tobiko, Education CS George Magoha and a host of local Members of Parliament, are present at the event.
At the main pavilion, the delegates are being entertained by various traditional dancers, Kenya Police Band and different choirs.
According to the program, the host Governor Anyang Nyong'o will give his welcoming remarks, followed by Council of Governors Chairman Martin Wambora and the President of United cities and local governments (UCLG) Africa, Christine Mba Ndutume.
Africities Ambassador Lupita Nyong'o, UN deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohamed and US Special President Envoy on Climate John Kerry will then address the delegates virtually.
The chairperson of the African Union Commission Moussa Faki will also address the conference with Devolution CS Eugene Wamalwa giving his remarks.
The climax of the event will be President Uhuru giving his address and officially opening the conference.
Thereafter a high-level dialogue on infrastructure and Urban Development will be done before the President later proceeds to examine the exhibition area.
A total of over 200 exhibitors registered to showcase their exhibition at the summit.
The event is expected to attract over 8,000 delegates.
The summit’s theme this year is, “The role of intermediary cities in Africa in the implementation of the United Nations 2030 Agenda and the African Union Agenda 2063.
