Kwale banks on mining, tourism

Kwale County has identified mining and tourism as key drivers of growth as the region held its first investors’ forum.

Governor Salim Mvurya assured delegates Tuesday that the county government has incentives to attract investors.

“We have a 200 km coastline which also has the best beaches and currently hosts national parks and reserves,” said the governor.

Speaking during the opening ceremony of the Kwale County Investment forum on Monday, the governor urged traders to take advantage of the opportunities that devolution had opened up.

“Companies can reduce operating costs and increase their profits if they invest here,” he said.

Mr Mvuyra said that the county has relatively cheaper land compared to other parts of Kenya. It has also established a land bank to ease access to affordable land for investment.

Governor Mvurya added that apart from tourism, the county is now focusing on mining.

“Currently, we have titanium-which is being extracted, Niobium at Mrima Hills and many others including naturals stones,” he said.

“The discovery of oil and gas has created new investment opportunities in mining. All these can contribute to wealth creation and turn around the fortunes of residents and investors,” he added.

The governor asked investors to set up agro-processing plants as the region has a good agriculture climate. He cited fruit processing as a potential industry.

Businessmen can also put up a port in Shimoni area, which has a history of slave trade.

“For those of us looking for partners in infrastructure development, we have an airstrip we want to elevate to an airport and open up a new road that will connect the region to other parts of this country,” he said.

Senator Boy Juma said political leaders are ready to support investors to set up industries. Women representative Zainab Chidzuga and Speaker Sammy Ruwa also attended the event.