President Uhuru Kenyatta is set to launch granite and gold processing and refinery factories in Vihiga and Kakamega counties. Petroleum and Mining Cabinet Secretary John Munyes toured both sites on ahead of President’s planned visit accompanied by governors Wycliffe Oparanya (Kakamega) and Wilbur Ottichilo (Vihiga).
The national government will implement the projects in collaboration with private investors. At least 10-acre land in Iguhu in Ikolomani Sub County has been acquired for the construction of the gold mining and processing factory with the same size of land earmarked for the granite factory at Buyangu in Luanda Sub-county.
Munyes disclosed that an Italian investor was ready to pump money into the granite factory in Vihiga and another one in the gold plant. He touted the projects as a game-changer to the economic growth of the two counties.
Big Four Agenda
“We are currently finishing up the paperwork in the deal with the Italian investor ahead of the head of state’s tour,” said Munyes.
President Kenyatta is expected to launch at least 15 other key projects during his tour of the region, including water projects, roads and issuing two universities with full charters. According to, Munyes, the president was keen on building his legacy around the Big Four Agenda whose pillars are manufacturing, food security, universal healthcare and affordable housing.
“The president’s visit will be to launch infrastructural projects that would open up Vihiga County and the region, in the process attracting both local and foreign investors for sustainable economic growth and development,” said Munyes.
Governor Oparanya said the gold refinery factory will empower local artisanal miners and boost the economy of Western by creating jobs and enhancing cash flow in the region.
