KEPSA, led by the CEO Ms Carole Kariuki, is participating in the inaugural Kilifi County International Investment Conference (KCIIC 2024) as a key partner. The three-day conference, which kicked off yesterday, 4^th December 2024 at Vipingo Ridge, Kilifi County, aims to showcase opportunities for partnership and investment across various industries, providing an exceptional platform for businesses, investors, and stakeholders to engage in networking and idea exchange. The event was graced by H.E. Dr. William Ruto, the President of the Republic of Kenya.

Speaking during the conference, President Ruto noted that devolution has provided a unique opportunity and capacity to empower the grassroots by unlocking untapped socioeconomic potential. He also said that the Government of Kenya remains steadfast in its commitment to ensure that all county governments are capitalising on their potential to attract investments and emerge as powerful engines of the country’s growth and development.

“The time has come to show that beyond its renowned vibrant culture, sandy beaches and hospitable people, Kilifi is also a competitive destination for transformative investments. This conference demonstrates that our counties are not only capable of leading but are already driving the transformation of Kenya's social-economic landscape.” Remarked President Ruto.

The event, under the theme ‘Accelerating Economic Growth Through Partnerships’, highlights Kilifi’s vast investment potential in sectors such as tourism, agriculture, infrastructure, renewable energy, and manufacturing. The conference has seen the signing of several memoranda of understanding, investments and partnership agreements between Kilifi County and various investors.

“This conference symbolises my dedication to a dream that has been close to my heart since the day I stepped into office: to transform Kilifi County into the shining star of Kenya. Our mission is to unleash the untapped greatness of our community, our resources and our breathtaking landscape. It serves as a rallying cry for all parties to unite and work towards creating a thriving, resilient and prosperous Kilifi,” said H.E Gideon Mung’aro, Governor of Kilifi County in his opening remarks.

Other leaders who spoke during the event included H.E Abdullswamad Sheriff Nassir, Governor of Mombasa County; H.E Fatuma Mohamed Achani, Governor of Kwale County; Rt. Hon Amason Kingi, Speaker of the Senate; Cabinet Secretaries Hon. Hassan Joho (Mining, Blue Economy & Maritime Affairs) and Hon. Salim Mvurya (Investments, Trade and Industry); Hon. Baya Owen, MP Kilifi North among other leaders.

KEPSA will be participating in various sessions including Governor’s Investment Thought Leadership Town Hall; Energizing the Future - Investing in Kilifi’s Renewable Energy Potential; and Harvesting Opportunity - Investing in Kilifi’s Agriculture.

The partnership between KEPSA and Kilifi County was established in August 2024, when Ms Carole Kariuki met with the Kilifi County Governor to discuss possible collaboration before, during, and after the Conference.