Lake Region Economic Bloc speakers voice bank project concerns

County Assembly speakers from Counties in the Lake Region Economic Bloc (LREB) have voiced their concerns over the projects and establishments made, saying they were sidelined. Speaking during the LREB summit held in Nandi, the speakers from Nandi, Kisii, Bomet among other Counties questioned the exclusion of the assemblies and the public in the establishment of key tenets of the bloc, including the bloc’s bank project, with each member County meant to contribute Kshs 200 million. The speakers led by Joshua Kiptoo demanded a clear explanation concerning the matter form the Governors.

They cited the importance of public participation given that the formation of a regional bank is a critical matter that carries huge financial implications.

On the other hand, the Governors from the 14 member Counties led by the chairperson and Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya reiterated that the summit meeting was meant to discuss the progress of the regional bloc bank project as the main agenda and the legislative sensitization on the ratification of the LREB agreement, and the status of the LREB secretariat. The two-day summit will conclude on Friday, where resolutions will be made. Counties under the bloc include Bungoma, Kakamega, Vihiga, Busia, Trans Nzoia, Kisumu, Siaya, Homa Bay, Migori, Nandi, Kisii, Nyamira, Bomet, and Kericho.