The third Northern Kenya Impact Investment Conference is scheduled to take place on October 29 and 30, 2024, in Nairobi, Kenya. This event will focus on fostering economic growth and resilience across the ten northern Kenyan counties namely Garissa, Isiolo, Lamu, Mandera, Marsabit, Samburu, Tana River, Turkana, Wajir, and West Pokot.

This year’s conference hosted by USAID Kuza, under the theme “Unveiling Opportunities: Redefining Northern Kenya as an Investable Destination,” seeks to explore innovative strategies to attract

investments, create sustainable economic opportunities, and drive positive change across Northern Kenya.

The upcoming Northern Kenya Impact Investment Conference builds upon the successes of preceding conferences held in Turkana, Lamu and Isiolo Counties by providing a platform for key stakeholders to convene and deliberate on the region’s investment landscape. This forum endeavors to bridge the gap between potential investors and local enterprises from the counties which occupy about 65% of Kenyas landmass, thereby fostering an environment conducive to the flourishing of new ventures and the expansion of existing businesses.

“We are calling on local and international investors to seize the opportunity and participate in the

economic revival of Kenya’s next frontier. Investing in climate resilience, agriculture, livestock, tourism, renewable energy, among many other sectors, has enormous potential to create sustainable, long-term impact,” Ronald Musundi, Senior Investment Manager and Local Representative, AV Ventures.

The conference will bring together a wide range of partners, investors, financial institutions,

development agencies, and government officials working and investing in northern Kenya. Participants will have the opportunity to:

• Showcase investment-ready transaction in northern
• Engage in impactful discussions on investment opportunities, economic development, climate resilience, digital innovation, and sustainable agriculture.
• Network with key stakeholders from both the public and private sectors, including county government officials, entrepreneurs, multilateral donors, and
• Learn from cross-county experiences, showcasing successful investments and lessons from previous cluster

Background: 2024 Regional County Investment Conferences

The first regional conference took place in Turkana County, highlighting investment opportunities in

Turkana and West Pokot. Stakeholders from various sectors convened to discuss innovative strategies for establishing, operating, and financing local businesses. Presentations highlighted the potential for

agricultural advancements, particularly in adopting drought-resistant crops and enhancing livestock management techniques. The event also underscored the importance of peace-building initiatives, emphasizing community-led conflict resolution to create a stable environment for economic growth.

The second regional conference was held in Lamu County, covering Lamu, Tana River, Garissa, Mandera, and Wajir. This gathering focused on climate-smart investments, promoting special economic zones, and

fostering partnerships between financial institutions and MSMEs. Attendees explored the Lamu Port and select climate-smart and tourism enterprises in Lamu, discussing ways to integrate sustainable practices into the region’s economic growth strategy.

The final regional conference was held in Isiolo County, with a focus on Isiolo, Marsabit, and Samburu. This conference focused on unlocking the agribusiness and tourism potential of the area. Discussions centered around eco-tourism and conservation efforts, with experts sharing insights on how to attract both local and international tourists while preserving natural heritage. The event also highlighted

agribusiness entrepreneurs in the region, with a focus on youth and women, driving the tourism sector forward and ensuring inclusive and sustainable development.

Throughout all three conferences, USAID Kuza provided technical assistance to the participating MSMEs and county governments. This support included training on crafting effective “elevator pitches” for

investors, which encompassed their business strategies, expansion plans, partnership opportunities, and financial requirements. By bridging the gap between local enterprises and potential investors, these conferences played a crucial role in fostering economic resilience and growth in northern Kenya.

Read: Attractive Investment Opportunities in Northern Kenya Counties 

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