President Ruto to open Homabay International Investment Conference this week
BY WYCLIFFE MAINA
President William Ruto is expected in Nyanza this week to officiate the opening session of the 2nd Homa Bay County International Investment Conference.
This is the first time Ruto will be making another tour to Raila Odinga’s backyard since he announced his support to the ODM leader for African Union Commission chairperson.
Unlike in the previous visits which the head of state was received with mixed reactions, pundits note that the head of state will be cheerfully received by Raila supporters when he presides over the conference slated for the 27th to 29th February at Tom Mboya University.
Ruto has already directed Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalai Mudavadi to initiate continental diplomatic efforts supporting Raila’s bid.
The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party Secretary General Cleophas Malala said Ruto-led party’s resolve to back Raila’s bid was not a political decision, but rather a patriotic one made to raise the country’s profile and image on the continental scene.
President Ruto’s expected visit to Homa Bay was revealed last month by Trade CS Rebecca Miano during her speech at a meeting that brought together development partners with Governor Gladys Wanga.
Among the dignitaries who attended the meeting hosted at Kempinski Hotel, Nairobi were US ambassador Med Whiteman, British High commissioner Neil Wiga, envoys from Australia, Netherlands, China, Italy, Cypress, Japan, heads of private companies as well as council of Governors’ chairperson Anne Waiguru.
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga addressing development partners at Kempnski Hotel in Nairobi.
The United States and the European Union have pledged to persuade investors to pump sh30 billion in Homa Bay county.Dubbed ‘Unlocking the Bay of Endless Potential’, the objective of the Homa Bay Investment Conference on the overall is to showcase the investment potential and opportunities available in the county and the lake region.