By Boniface Mulu
Kitui County, Kenya: An estimated 4,000 people attended the two-day Kitui County Investors Sensitization Forum held on March 13–14, 2025, at the Kitui County Aggregation and Industrial Park (KCAIP) in Kanyonyoo, Lower Yatta District.
The event was officially opened on Thursday, March 13, 2025, by Kitui County Governor Dr. Julius Makau Malombe, who also presided over the closing ceremony on Friday, March 14, 2025. Themed “Showcasing Kitui’s Investment Opportunities,” the forum highlighted the county’s potential for economic growth and development.
The colorful event was organized by the Kitui County Government in partnership with the Kenyan Government, KenInvest, the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), Univision DT Savings and Credit Cooperative Society Limited, Kenya Export Promotion and Branding Agency, Bestrock Savings and Credit Cooperative Society Limited, among others. Attendees came from various parts of Kenya, reflecting a broad interest in Kitui’s investment potential.
Governor Malombe’s Address
In his opening speech, Governor Malombe welcomed participants, emphasizing the forum’s role in sensitizing medium, small, and micro enterprises (SMEs) and investors about opportunities in Kitui County.
“This event showcases the county’s rich resource endowment and investment potential within our six economic and investment zones, as outlined in the Kitui Vision for Economic and Social Transformation (KVEST) blueprint,” Malombe stated.
He highlighted the county’s progress in fostering a thriving economic ecosystem and outlined key government initiatives designed to attract investors.
The Kitui County Aggregation and Industrial Park (KCAIP) is being developed in partnership with the national government at a cost of KSh 500 million, with each government contributing KSh 250 million. Covering 1,500 acres, the park is expected to be a key driver of industrialization and economic growth in the region.
Malombe underscored Kitui’s vast untapped resources and investor-friendly environment, making it a prime destination for business.
“Kitui boasts extensive deposits of coal, limestone, copper, iron ore, gypsum, graphite, and other minerals, as well as vast arable land ideal for agriculture. These present diverse investment opportunities,” he noted.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to infrastructure development, including roads, energy, and water supply, to support business operations.
“We are leveraging technology to streamline processes and enhance service efficiency,” Malombe added.
He concluded by inviting investors to be part of Kitui’s growth story:
“I encourage you to invest in our promising sectors and contribute to the shared prosperity of our people. Together, we can unlock Kitui’s full potential and achieve sustainable development for generations to come.”
Other Key Speakers
Several dignitaries addressed the forum, including:
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Deputy Governor Augustine Wambua Kanani
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Kitui County Commissioner Kipchumba Ruto
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KNCCI President Eric Ruto (speech read on his behalf by KNCCI Kitui County Chairman Alex Mwendwa Munyoki)
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County Trade, Industry, Innovation, SMEs, and Cooperatives Development Minister Rose Mawia Mutuku
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County Environment, Forestry, Climate Change, Energy, and Natural Resources Minister Richard John Mwendandu
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County Finance, Economic Planning, and Revenue Management Minister Peter Mwikya Kilonzo
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County Health and Sanitation Minister Ruth Koki Mwanzia
The Kitui County Investors Sensitization Forum successfully showcased the county’s economic potential, marking a significant step towards attracting local and international investments.
