Kilifi governor woos Chinese investors

Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung'aro and Jiu Jiang City Deputy Mayor, Xiong Jinxi after signing memorandum of cooperation on October 11, 2023. [File, Standard]

The Kilifi county government has turned to China as it eyes investors to spur development and create employment opportunities for residents.

This is after Governor Gideon Mung'aro attended the 2024 World Manufacturing Convention in Hefei town, Anhui province in China at the invitation of the Kenya Chinese Chamber of Commerce.

The county chief used the opportunity to showcase investment opportunities in Kilifi county.

Mung'aro said Kilifi is endowed with vast land, natural resources, labour and business incentives which if well harnessed could turn around the economy of the region and create more than 500,000 employment opportunities.

He said he managed to win over investors in the manufacturing, tourism, blue economy and mining sectors.

"As we convene under the theme "Intelligent Manufacturing for a Better Future," it is imperative to acknowledge the role of innovation in driving economic advancement. The manufacturing sector in Kenya and across Africa holds significant potential as a driver of technological progress and industrial revolution," said Mung'aro.

The governor who was accompanied by Kaloleni MP Paul Katana, senior county staff and MCAs, noted that the county already has 3,000 acres of land under the Special Economic Zone in Kaloleni sub county and its proximity to the port of Mombasa offers ease transportation of raw materials and finished goods.

"Our proximity to the port of Mombasa will lead to reduced logistical costs as our county serves as a conduit for Africa's economic development, and we are prepared to collaborate with you. Through China aid initiatives, three officials from our Department of Gender and Trade have undergone training in China. I am committed to facilitating more such opportunities for our officials," he said.

"These exchanges are not merely educational but also essential in nurturing mutual respect and understanding. They contribute to building connections not only between governments but also between individuals," added the term governor.

In December last year, the county signed a city-to-city Memorandum of Understanding with the Mayor of Jiujiang city Mr Xiong Jinxi which was witnessed by the Executive Vice Governor of the People's Government of JiangXi province Ren Zhufeng, a Chinese trade delegation, Kilifi county officials and residents.