Coast governors to launch economic bloc

The newly formed Jumuia ya Kaunti za Pwani (JKP) is set to be officially launched next Saturday at Fort Jesus Museum in Mombasa city.

JKP is an economic integration block of Coast's six counties, modelled along the lines of the East Africa Community, and is a brain-child of the region's professionals and intellectuals.

Most local political leaders, including all governors have expressed their support for the corporation, which will include establishing of a bank to fund proposed large scale infrastructure programmes, a tourism authority and joint economic policies.

In a statement to news rooms yesterday, Governor Salim Mvurya who is JKP chairman said the six Coast governors will sign an MoU that will unify the counties as a regional economic bloc.

"JKP agitates for the unity for the coastal counties in both political and socio-economic sectors. It will bring together all the six governors, setting stage for the establishment of a Coastal fund that will among others finance tourism activities," he said.

 OVERWHELMING SUPPORT

Mvurya said the move follows numerous consultations with all the stakeholders within coastal counties who promised to make sure the corporation succeeds.

"We have invited various prominent people with Coastal origin, including senior government officials, professionals, elected leaders, eminent personalities and the general public from all the six counties. So far, we are overwhelmed by the positive response," he said.

Mvurya who is also the vice chairperson Council of Governors, noted that it was time for the region to unite so as to realise tremendous development.

"As our rallying call proclaims, 'Jumuia Yetu, Uchumi Wetu' (Our Unity, our economy), this is the opportune time for all of us to unite so that we can capitalise on each other's strength  and improve the people's standards of living," he added.

The event will also be closely monitored by pundits who have claimed the initiative is politically motivated.