Nandi governor Stephen Sang (L) with EPZ and EPC Companies Director Kenneth Nyachae during the signing of MoU in Kapsabet town on January 18, 2018. [Photo/Joe Khisa]
The agriculture sector in Nandi is set to receive a major boost following a partnership between the county government of Nandi and the Export Processing Zone Authority as well as the Export Promotion Council.
The partnership is aimed at boosting investment opportunities for small and medium entrepreneurs in agribusiness resulting in the creation of over 10,000 direct jobs for the youths and serve up to 15, 000 farmers.
Speaking after signing the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the partnership, Nandi governor Stephen Sang said the project will be established on a 200-acre farm in Chemase/ Chemelil Ward.
"When this Export Processing Zone will be fully developed, we will be able to provide job opportunities for thousands and thousands of our people," Sang noted.
He said the multi-million deal will involve value addition of tea, sugarcane, fruits, and other horticultural crops.
"There is a huge market in Europe that requires many tons of horticultural products and establishment of EPZA at Chemase will greatly boost our economy," added the youthful governor.
On his part, EPZ and EPC Companies Director Kenneth Nyachae said that the partnership will help increase production of horticultural crops to European countries subsequently boosting the county's economy and improving locals livelihoods.
"So far EPZ and EPC companies have established 20 projects in 20 counties across the country. This project will be used to promote and facilitate export of the region’s produce," said Nyachae.