Governor Kivutha Kibwana says new Ukambani economic bloc not a political union

The South Eastern Kenya Economic Bloc, which was formed on Friday, has distanced itself from politics.

The partnership comprises Makueni, Machakos and Kitui counties.

Makueni Governor Kivutha Kibwana read the resolution during a meeting at Konza Techno City on the border with Machakos County.

“This is not a politicians’ union. The work of political leaders was to act as midwives.

“We should be careful not to bring negative competition into the bloc,” Prof Kibwana said, adding that professionals should never be seen to be working for certain politicians.

The governor said the main objective of the bloc was to foster trade and free movement of goods as well as lobbying the national government to develop the area.

The sentiments were echoed by Kitui Governor Julius Malombe, the chairman of the alliance.

He said the three counties would realise many benefits if they worked together.

ECONOMIC BENEFITS

“People look up to us for services but there is a bigger picture; devolved governments need to provide an enabling environment for investment and trade,” he said.

“Let’s talk economics and the social benefits will follow.”

He said the region had number of shared resources like River Athi, which if exploited could transform the counties “from brown to green”.

Dr Malombe said the counties had mineral resources like coal, iron and rare earth minerals, but added that the most important resource for the region was its people.

He said leaders should lobby for the construction of Kibwezi–Kitui road as it would open up the region and reduce the cost of doing business.

Dr Malombe said the road would benefit about nine counties, including Makueni, Kitui, Embu and Tharaka-Nithi.

Two weeks ago, leaders from Kitui and Makueni were dispersed by police officers during a demon against delayed tarmarcking of the road.

Machakos Water Executive Kioko Luka, who represented Governor Dr Alfred Mutua, said the county boss had endorsed the bloc.