The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce & Industry(KNCCI)- Uasin Gishu Chapter in collaboration with the County Government Of Uasin Gishu   held a business forum on Thursday 30th March at Rupas Mall under the theme ‘New Opportunities in the upcoming city’

The Chamber President Mr. Richard Ngatia and the Chamber 1st Vice President Dr. Erick Rutto were accompanied by KNCCI county chairpersons from various counties and National directors to the business forum.

The Uasin Gishu Governor H.E Hon Jonathan Bii who was the Guest of honor in his remarks appreciated KNCCI on the continued support in the growth development of business in the county. He gave his assurance to ensure full automation of county processes and licensing. He also noted that when the town becomes a city, the devolved unit stands to receive additional revenue allocations for development projects from national government agencies and other development partners.

The Governor also noted that he would work closely with KNCCI- Uasin Gishu Chapter to put in place the proper policies to promote a conducive business environment and the development of an industrial park that will help in the creation of opportunities for the people of Uasin Gishu. He concluded by assuring the business people that his government will improve the security in order to protect the businesses.

The Chamber President Mr. Richard Ngatia being the chief guest during the forum in his remarks assured the business community of Uasin Gishu that KNCCI will continue to support businesses through initiatives such as training and mentorship programs, access to financing, and advocacy efforts, with an aim to create an environment in which local businesses can succeed and flourish. He encouraged the business community on the importance of value addition on agricultural products, as it will increase their marketability and profitability of products and access to global markets. He emphasized on the importance of digitalization to the businesses. He encouraged the Uasin Gishu county chapter on making it an annual event and invite investors to enhance the access to markets. He concluded by encouraging the county chapter to continue supporting and promoting business within the region such forums.

The Chamber 1st Vice President, Dr Erick Rutto in a panel discussion appreciated the county government for its continuous support through the office of the Governor. He emphasized on the importance of the City status on Eldoret will be of benefit to the development of infrastructure, growth of business in the North Rift Economic Bloc (NOREB) and increase in Tourism in the Region.

He challenged the business to adopt value addition in order to produce products that meet the needs of the export market. He encouraged the SMES to join KNCCI in order to grow businesses through networking and business forums, capacity building, access to information and benefits from projects and programs. The panel elaborated on the importance of technology to the Sme to help in connecting of the business locally, nationally and internationally.

KNCCI -Uasin Gishu chapter Chairman  Mr Willy Kenei welcomed the guest to the event and emphasized on the partnership between the KNCCI and County government to help in creating opportunities and advocating for the growth of business community. He appreciated the new appointment of Eldoret as a city and the opportunities for growth.

He concluded by appreciating all the Sponsors  , KNCCI National Governing Council(NGC) and all members for participating and contributing to the success of the event.