Siaya Governor James Orengo on Tuesday evening hosted the county’s business community in a consultative meeting to prepare for the inaugural Siaya International Trade and Investment Conference (SITICO), slated for October 14–17, 2025.
The session, held at White House Hotel in Siaya, brought together representatives from the Jua Kali sector, hoteliers, agribusiness players, boda boda operators, manufacturers, and the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Siaya Chapter), among others.
Themed “Positioning Siaya County as an Investment Destination: Transformative Growth through Trade and Investment,” SITICO is expected to showcase Siaya’s potential as a regional trade hub by linking local enterprises with investors, government institutions, and development partners.
Governor Orengo lauded the business community for their resilience and commitment to growing Siaya’s economy. Drawing from his global experience, including interactions with U.S. billionaire George Soros, Orengo stressed that “the world’s largest investments are driven by individuals, not governments.”
He urged the county’s entrepreneurs to register for SITICO, reminding them that they remain the county’s primary investors. Orengo also confirmed that President William Ruto will attend the conference on October 16, underscoring the event’s national significance.
Looking to spur rural economic growth, Orengo announced plans to revive cotton farming, with the 2025/2026 budget allocating funds to modernize the Rarieda ginnery. He also cited ongoing and upcoming national projects in the county—including the upgrade of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Stadium, construction of Usenge Port, and modernization of Siaya Referral Hospital—as part of broader efforts to create a conducive investment climate.
On the controversial proposed nuclear plant in Siaya, the governor struck a confident tone, noting it would inject 6,000 megawatts into the national grid and boost the regional economy. He assured the public that international safety standards would be met.
County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Trade, Grace Agolla, revealed that the county targets to secure KSh 10 billion in partnership deals during the conference. She urged entrepreneurs to consolidate under umbrella bodies to strengthen their voice and present bankable projects.
Her counterpart in Agriculture, Sylvester K’Okoth, pledged incentives ranging from tax waivers to investor-friendly policies, while highlighting subsidy programs under the county’s “Long Rains Campaign” aimed at boosting food security.
Acting Chief Officer for Trade Elizabeth Adongo emphasized the service sector’s importance, revealing that 18 to 25 projects are ready for signing during the conference. She also unveiled the Siaya International Trade and Investment Handbook, designed to help investors market their ventures.
SITICO 2025 Planning Committee Chair Victor Nyagaya, who also serves as CEO of the Lake Region Economic Block, praised the event’s apolitical character, stressing its role in driving foreign direct investment into Siaya.
The meeting was attended by senior county officials including County Secretary Joseph Ogutu, CECMs Maurice McOrege (Lands) and Dr. Martin K’Onyango (Health), Kenya Bureau of Standards Regional Manager Ruth Ogweno, and youth leaders.
With preparations in top gear, SITICO 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark event, placing Siaya firmly on Kenya’s investment map.
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