How traders reaped big during devolution conference

Within the short period, the region was host to the Head of State William Ruto, Deputy President (DP) Rigathi Gachagua, governors and county executives from the entire 47 devolved units, envoys representing development partners and the opposition chief Raila Odinga.

It was a beehive of activity in Eldoret as guests flocked the region both by road and air. There was reported increased flights to the Eldoret International Airport and the Eldoret airstrip where other dignitaries landed on private chartered planes and helicopters.

But to the residents, it was a rare and great opportunity to make economic fortunes from the conference.

"It was both a great opportunity to make income, learn new aspects of business and establish contacts with clients. It gave us room to showcase our entrepreneurial creativity, meet new corporate clients and learn from diverse exhibitors," said Rael Sambu.

Sambu, who runs Samrae Branding and Advertising side hustle, said the devolution conference generated good income for her within three days.

"It was a good platform to showcase our innovations in branding in an event where National government, Counties and development partners participated. Business was booming," said Sambu.

Justus Kibet, the proprietor of the popular Tamasha Lounge in Eldoret town said; "The Devolution conference lived up to its expectations and was a huge success for our enterprises."

Kibet said there was exciting nightlife as hundreds of delegates flocked to the entertainment joints.

"We were glad to host 11 governors, several senators and other county executives who enjoyed meals and drinks, some partying through the night. Our guests are accorded privacy and all enjoyed their time, giving us good business," Kibet added.

Kiambu County puts its best foot forward during the conference. [Christopher Kipsang, Standard]

"Bookings were overwhelming and we had to seek alternative places for clients who contacted us after the available rooms had been taken," said Karikui.

Ken Cheboi, a taxi operator, however, said most delegates had vehicles but said those who operate at night, did good business transporting clients who loved the nightlife.

"I operate a day business and we had few clients because most counties organized their transport means," said Cheboi.

Mr Willy Kenei, the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) Uasin Gishu chairman said Eldoret town is emerging as a conference destination noting that the more than 10,000 delegates were comfortably accommodated and there was no security hitch.

"The presence of the high number of delegates, National and County leadership, and international partners in Eldoret is testimony enough that the town is ripe for a city status," said Kenei who noted that there was an International Orthopedics conference of Doctors in the town during the period.

Kenei added: "There was adequate food and water for the entire teams and security agencies increased surveillance and eased traffic flow. There were increased flights and airlines including Kenya Airways at the Eldoret International Airport."

Elijah Kosgei, the Uasin Gishu County executive for Devolution said the conference accorded residents a great opportunity to interact and do business

Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii said for the first time, the North Rift region hosted top National and County leadership that also made good deliberations to enhance devolved governance.

"It is the first time that our county opened up to the rest 47 counties for three days. Our infrastructure is now ideal for future national and international events of similar magnitude," said Bii who lauded the Council of Governors, county secretariats and the national government for organizing a successful event.