Kisumu City, once known for its challenges with insecurity, is making strides towards becoming a business-friendly hub in the Western part of Kenya. City Manager Abala Wanga has been at the forefront of this transformation, urging both local and international investors to explore new opportunities in the lakeside city. Speaking during the opening of a new City Walk outlet at United Mall in Kisumu, Wanga emphasized the significant progress the city has made in creating a conducive environment for businesses to thrive.
Wanga noted that Kisumu’s focus on innovation and sustainability has led to a favorable environment for investors. “We are committed to making Kisumu a business-friendly city that supports both established and new enterprises,” he said. “The county government values investors for their role in driving the local economy, creating jobs, and enhancing trade.” This commitment comes at a time when Kisumu is seeing an increased influx of businesses looking to establish a presence in the city, drawn by its growing economic prospects.
The City Manager’s call for new investors comes at a time when Kisumu is experiencing a revival in its security situation. The Assistant County Commissioner, Daniel Otieno, who represented the county commissioner at the event, reassured investors that the city was under constant surveillance, particularly during the festive season. “We want to assure the people that Kisumu is safe and the opening of this new store is a strong indication of that,” Otieno stated. This reassurance was crucial as Kisumu had recently faced concerns over rising insecurity, which had led to fears that businesses might relocate or shut down. However, with proactive measures in place, the city is proving that it is ready for investment.
One notable business taking the leap in Kisumu is City Walk, which recently opened a new outlet at United Mall. The store’s opening marks another milestone in the city’s growth journey. Operations Manager Margaret Lyani expressed her excitement about the growing market in Kisumu, noting that the purchasing power in the region was a significant draw for expansion. “We are pleased with the purchasing power here, and we look forward to further expanding our presence in the region,” Lyani said. City Walk, which started in 1991 with just one branch, now operates 31 branches across the country. This rapid expansion underscores the confidence businesses have in Kisumu’s market potential.
The new City Walk outlet not only brings in goods and services but also provides job opportunities for locals. Wanga emphasized the role of such businesses in fostering local employment. “Businesses like City Walk provide job opportunities for the locals,” he said. “Our goal is to continue fostering a conducive environment where businesses can thrive and contribute to the prosperity of our people.” This sentiment was echoed by Lyani, who stated that the company was optimistic about Kisumu’s future and committed to contributing to its growth.
Kisumu’s focus on security and economic development is paying off. Wanga’s efforts to make the city a hub for both local and international investors are bearing fruit. The opening of new businesses and the expansion of existing ones demonstrate a vibrant market and a resilient local economy. The city’s commitment to sustainability and innovation is also attracting environmentally conscious investors who seek to contribute to a greener future.
As Kisumu continues to position itself as a preferred destination for businesses, the city’s leadership is also working to enhance infrastructure and services. Investments in education, healthcare, and transport are seen as critical to sustaining economic growth. The county government’s proactive approach to creating a favorable business environment is evident in its initiatives to streamline processes and offer incentives to investors.
In conclusion, Kisumu’s revival as a business-friendly city is a testament to its resilience and the strategic efforts of its leadership. Abala Wanga’s encouragement for new investors, coupled with the assurance of improved security from Assistant County Commissioner Daniel Otieno, is crucial in attracting businesses to the region. The opening of the City Walk outlet is just one example of the city’s potential and the opportunities available for growth. As Kisumu continues to invest in its future, it is poised to become a significant economic player in Kenya’s Western region.
