Siaya Governor James Aggrey Bob Orengo is leaving nothing to chance as the county gears up for the Siaya International Investment Conference (SITICO), set for October 14–17, 2025.
Orengo on Friday revealed that the landmark event will be officially opened by President Dr. William Samoei Ruto on October 16 and closed by former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga on October 17—a rare bipartisan seal of approval underscoring the weight and national significance of SITICO.
A Haven of Untapped Potential
The governor urged private investors and members of the Lake Region Economic Bloc (LREB) to seize the moment, describing Siaya as “a haven bursting with untapped potential.”
Among the opportunities highlighted were vast agricultural prospects and the recent discovery of ample gold deposits in the county. Orengo confirmed that his administration was formulating safe and sustainable mining regulations to ensure communities benefit while protecting the environment.
“Siaya is open for business. We are talking about food security, clean energy, and mineral wealth that has barely been scratched. Investors who miss this train will regret it,” Orengo said.
Nuclear Power Plant Debate
Touching on the hot-button issue of the planned nuclear power plant in Siaya, Orengo dismissed public fears, assuring residents that waste management and safety concerns would be handled by international-caliber nuclear science professionals.
Drawing parallels with France, where 80% of electricity is derived from nuclear energy, Orengo argued that Kenya cannot be left behind.
“This is the direction of all advanced economies—the U.S., UAE, France. With Siaya hosting this plant, the entire country will benefit from cheaper power,” he declared.
On concerns about displacement, Orengo clarified that the plant would only require land equivalent to 10 football pitches, contrasting it with Ethiopia’s vast hydroelectric project that displaced entire communities.
Defusing the JOOUST Land Dispute
Orengo also addressed the simmering debate over the future of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) in Siaya, which has been rocked by allegations of eviction.
He dismissed the uproar as “a debate hijacked by political opportunists”, clarifying that the 5-year MoU between the county government and JOOUST had simply expired and renewal negotiations were underway.
“Let us be honest with the people—Siaya County owns only a tiny fraction of the land in question. Most of it belongs to the national government, part of which is reserved for the Agricultural Training Institute that cannot be relocated,” he explained.
Orengo added that while JOOUST had lagged in developing its allocated land, discussions were ongoing for the establishment of a fully indigenous institution tentatively called Obama University. He also hinted at possible national government involvement in relocating the GK Kombul Prison to free up space for expansion.
KBC Partnership and Media Outreach
Beyond investments and policy, Orengo stressed the importance of strategic partnerships in shaping Siaya’s development story.
He revealed that he had earlier on met with the remarkable team at the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC), led by Managing Director Agnes Kalekye, praising the pioneering media house for its innovation across digital platforms, television, and its beloved local station, Mayienga FM.
“Their dedication to quality content and strong community connections is commendable. As we prepare for SITICO and beyond, I look forward to working with KBC and other leading media houses to amplify our message. Together, we will engage citizens and shape a brighter future for our community,” he said.
In a lighter moment, the governor—appearing relaxed and upbeat—kept bantering with a Mayienga FM presenter, playfully calling her “Nyar-Aboke” in reference to a locality in his Ugenya backyard.
Call to Corporates and Multinationals
As the countdown to SITICO ticks closer, Orengo sent a rallying call to banks, corporates, and multinational conglomerates to step into Siaya and reap from its emerging potential.
“This is the moment to place your bets on Siaya. Agriculture, mining, education, and energy—all the pillars of the future—are converging right here. We are building not just a county economy, but a regional powerhouse,” he said.
With Ruto and Raila sharing the SITICO stage, the conference promises to be more than just a county event—it could mark the beginning of Siaya’s transformation into a magnet for local and global investment.
Leave a Reply