Representatives from UN-Habitat and the Danish government have visited Busia County to validate the Greater Busia Metro Development Project, an ambitious cross-border program designed to transform trade processes and economic opportunities in the border regions of Busia and Malaba.
The project, officially titled "Building Resilience of Local Government and Informal Women and Youths Traders in Greater Busia Metro 2025-2028," aims to address fundamental but often overlooked challenges including land tenure and security issues that impede economic growth and gender equality in the region.
During a courtesy visit, Busia County Deputy Governor, H.E Arthur Odera emphasized the significance of the project's focus areas.
"When you look at the impediments to trade, economic empowerment, growth, and gender perspectives, issues such as land tenure, security among others are the challenges our people face silently," said Odera. He added that the initiative would help ensure both men and women are empowered and have the zeal to fuel economic growth, ultimately improving lives and enhancing skills across the region.
Following the Tuesday's meeting, the delegation is now engaging with various focus groups from both Kenyan and Ugandan sides of Busia to gather insights and strengthen the project's implementation strategy.
The county government was also represented by acting County Secretary, CS Oscar Juma and several County Executive Committee Members including Douglas Okiring (Strategic Partnerships), Topista Wanyama (Finance), and Peter Odima (Lands), alongside Chief Officer Vincent Wanjala, James Adedi ( Director Strategic Partnerships)and other county officials.
The international delegation included Grace Lubaale, Regional Programme Officer at UN-Habitat, Ann Kobaek, Consultant at the Embassy of Denmark, and Mette Melson, Development Cooperation Specialist from the Danish Embassy. Also present were County Commissioner Mr. Mwachaunga Chaunga, leadership from the Busia Cross Border Traders Association, and the County Boda Boda chairperson.
The cross-border development project specifically targets women, youth, and informal traders, who form the backbone of local economies but often face significant barriers to formalization and growth.
0 $type={facebook}:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.