Trans Nzoia County Breaks Ground on Aggregation and Industrial Park
Trans Nzoia County is set to become a leading exporter of agricultural products to international markets with the imminent operation of the County Aggregation and Industrial Park.
During the groundbreaking ceremony held this evening at Namandala ADC farm, Governor George Natembeya emphasized the ambitious nature of this project, which will occupy a 100-acre land, and its transformative potential for the county’s agriculture and industry.
“The launch represents a pivotal milestone in our county’s economic growth,” stated the governor. “It will serve as a central hub for processing agricultural products and manufacturing, establishing a vital link between local farmers, industries, and both national and international markets.”
Governor Natembeya also highlighted the park’s role in collecting and processing various crops, including avocado, tomatoes, sunflower, as well as milk and poultry products.
Praising the presence of Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade, and Industry Moses Kuria at the ceremony, the governor emphasized the project’s objectives of enhancing the value of local products and creating employment opportunities for residents while facilitating the transfer of technology.
The governor underscored the positive impact the park will have on local farmers, particularly in the maize sector.
He noted that for years, maize farmers had been selling their produce at low prices to middlemen. However, the upcoming milling plant within the Aggregation and Industrial Park will enable farmers to sell their maize at favorable rates.
Governor Natembeya also revealed plans to prioritize transportation and storage infrastructure within the park, streamlining the movement of goods to and from the facility.
He stressed that this project aligns with the collaborative efforts of both the national and county governments to accelerate economic growth and improve services for the citizens.
Furthermore, the governor announced upcoming improvements, including electricity connectivity, piped water, and road development for the industrial park.
Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria lauded Trans Nzoia County’s efforts to improve residents’ living standards by encouraging investments.
He emphasized that the County Aggregation and Industrial Park would play a significant role in poverty reduction by adding value to farm produce. He criticized the practice of residents selling maize at low prices and then buying maize flour at higher rates, highlighting that the park’s milling plant would change this scenario.
Kuria disclosed that the government was procuring maize driers worth KSH 2 billion for installation in the county. He also noted that the park would generate job opportunities and export finished products to other countries.
PS for Industrialization, Juma Mukhwana, estimated the project’s cost at KSH 500 million, with KSH 250 million contributed by the county. He projected a completion timeline of 9 to 18 months.
Trans Nzoia Senator Allan Chesang pledged his commitment to collaborate with the County administration to ensure residents reap the benefits of devolution.