Kisumu County,27 June 2026 -Woman Representative Ruth Odinga says unlocking investment, creating jobs, and backing local enterprises are key to accelerating economic growth in Kisumu County.
Speaking at an economic empowerment forum she convened, Odinga urged government agencies to eliminate bottlenecks that deter investors, arguing that empowering businesses is the surest path to employment, especially for youth.
She noted that despite strong investor interest in Kisumu, delays in critical infrastructure continue to stall projects with the potential to transform livelihoods.
Odinga also empowered women by issuing cheques to more than 40 groups to start businesses and improve their livelihoods. In addition, she distributed equipment including compressors, woodwork machines, and posho mills. “It is better to give someone what they can depend on for a livelihood instead of a few coins,” she said.
Citing a proposed mabati manufacturing plant, Odinga said the project which was expected to employ more than 3,000 youths has stalled because the investor is yet to receive a three-phase transformer despite having everything else in place. She appealed to the relevant authorities to expedite the process to unlock the investment and stimulate the local economy.
“Everything is ready except the three-phase transformer. Let us enable this investment because it will create employment for over 3,000 young people,” she said.
Odinga further emphasized that economic transformation cannot happen without a safe environment, warning that rising insecurity is undermining investor confidence and slowing development.
“Insecurity and the killings happening in Kisumu County are escalating and getting completely out of hand. We cannot allow this situation to continue,” she said.
Belinda Odera, chairlady of Fresh Omena Group, thanked the Woman Rep and highlighted the partnership with the University of Nairobi’s African Women Studies Centre for the outreach. She said the collaboration has supported training, allocated workspaces, and run product pilots that are creating momentum to scale value addition for omena.
Education was also a key focus with beneficiary Dolphine Achieng thanked Odinga for helping her continue her studies and acquire wiring skills despite financial difficulties. She said the skill will help her secure a future for herself, adding that such support is crucial.
