Ukambani Governors To Set Up A Bank Under South Eastern Kenya Economic Bloc

Three Ukambani governors, Charity Ngilu (Kitui), Alfred Mutua (Machakos) and Prof Kivutha Kibwana (Makueni) have decided to revive the defunct South Eastern Kenya Economic Bloc (Sekeb) that will spearhead economic growth in the region.

Under the bloc, the leaders have agreed to set up a new bank that will create employment opportunities for the region and spur economic growth.

The leaders revealed this in Kitui yesterday during a forum that brought together business people and professionals to discuss opportunities to be brought about by Sekeb.

“The bank will be a non-political entity to offer cheap credit to our people. We also want to jointly create markets for our goods, enhance value addition and ensure food security by revamping agriculture,” said Ms Ngilu.

Ngilu’s counterpart Mutua reiterated the same, saying that the bloc should give residents an alternative to farming, which has been less productive due to low rainfall.

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“We already have all the basic factors of production – capital, labour and technology. We therefore call upon all leaders, churches and professionals to join the initiative without minding their religious and political affiliations so that together, we can find solutions to our problems. Let us speak in one voice as the Kamba community,” said Mutua.

On his part, Prof Kibwana said that the move will liberate the people of Ukambani from marginalisation, poverty and dependency.

“We have come together because we have a lot in common. Through Sekeb, we want to promote trade and grow wealth for our people. We will remain united and work together on all initiatives we have discussed and ensure our people fully benefit from our resources,” said Prof Kibwana.