Reclaim lost glory, Owalo tells Nyanza

''Nyanza used to be a cradle of education, especially Gem, Siaya County. These are long gone days and we need to ask ourselves, where did we go wrong. The schools that used to do well are now underdogs,'' Owalo said.

Professionals from different sectors and other stakeholders want to craft a roadmap in partnership with the government to help the region. The focus is on education, health, blue Economy and climate change, among other areas.

The CS further said the government is partnering with TVET institutions and schools with infrastructures to set up digital laboratory projects to enable the youth exploit their potential.

''As they learn the skills, correspondingly we are reaching out to global technological companies to get jobs for us. We are going to set up digital village hubs in each ward where youth will go and learn with ICT skills,'' he said.

Last week, the ICT and Digital Economy PS John Tanui hosted a delegation from the European Investment Bank to discuss areas of support.

Tanui said the Ministry was looking for funding towards the nationwide project to connect the 1,450 administrative wards, and digitalisation of government records and services.

The CS stressed the importance of collaboration among various government agencies, private sector players, and other stakeholders.

Owalo yesterday also noted the wastage of resources as some institutions in the region lie idle, citing Kabonyo Fishing Training Institute. He said Sh3 billion has been allocated to revive the college.

The CS said fishermen will be facilitated with modern fishing techniques and locals encouraged to use their products.

''It is embarrassing to note that fish is harvested in Nyanza, but fish we consume in the area are imported from China,'' he said.

Other projects earmarked include Ahero Irrigation Scheme, with Owalo saying rains could not be relied on due to changing weather patterns.

He local traders to form co-operative societies to benefit from government grants.

The CS said eight constituencies in the region will benefit in the last mile electricity connectivity.