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A Kenyan model who last April emerged Miss Congeniality in Miss Eco Universe 2016 awards in Cairo, Egypt, pulled a surprise on President Uhuru Kenyatta during his tour of Belgium.
Julia Njoroge, 25, invited President Kenyatta to visit her mother’s Tandala Lodge in Jua Kali area in Laikipia County, which she said was put up as a result of hard work.
Julia was among Kenyans living in Belgium who were given a chance to address the president during a dinner organised in Brussels, the country’s capital city.
“My mother is building a lodge in Jua Kali. It is called Tandala Lodge, it would be very nice if you visit, welcome, and everyone here is welcome,” she said, attracting a loud applause.
She said her mother, Susan Wanjira, lived in Belgium for 20 years before returning back to Kenya three years ago.
“She really worked hard here in Belgium for 20 years and is now putting up the lodge. She saved a lot to put up the investment,” she said, adding that her mother was taken in circles when it came to getting licences.
“There is need to streamline licensing and promote investment because we are not doing it for ourselves but for Kenya and the economy,” she added.
She also called for government intervention to ensure the gender Bill is passed into law, saying it was a hindrance to women’s development and participation in leadership.
Julia noted that in Belgium, women are well-represented, unlike in Kenya where they lag behind in political participation.
“I would also want to come back to Kenya and vie for a position, but the current setting makes it difficult for women,” she said.
President Kenyatta responded that the government is committed to improving investor trust, noting that the licences charged are an impediment to investment.
“We are doing everything possible to simplify issuance of licences. We recognise the challenges, but we will ensure the tedious processes do not deter you from investing,” promised Kenyatta.
