Multi-million fully equipped resort unveiled in Mandera

Governor Ali Roba (right) with other dignitaries after he opened the Red Sea Resort in Mandera town. [Photo: Mandela Okoth/Standard]

About a year ago, finding accommodation and conference facilities in Mandera town was next to impossible.

The county was even forced to, at one time, put off an investors conference since it did not have capacity to host the numbers expected at the event.

This is, however, now a thing of the past after Governor Ali Roba on Thursday unveiled the multi-million Red Sea Resort, which offers luxurious accommodation and state-of-the-art conference facilities.

New investors

Speaking at the event, the governor asked both local and international investors to explore the many investment opportunities currently available in the hospitality industry.

“Those who seize this opportunity and put up investments, at this time, are likely to be first to do so and will reap maximum benefits out of the opportunities that exist in the county,” he said.

Mr Roba said investment in the private sector, especially the hospitality industry, is increasing adding that the resort is the sixth private property to be put up in the county since onset of devolution.

“The challenge is now on us to provide a conducive environment for those interested in putting up real business ventures and we will put infrastructure in place that facilitates economic growth,” he said.

The governor said with this increased accommodation capacity, the county is now gearing towards holding its first ever investor forum aimed at promoting business opportunities.

Economic growth

Executive Secretary Abdiaziz Sheikh Maad said construction of a five star hotel, in the northern frontier, is currently ongoing which is expected spur economic growth once complete.

“We are currently in the process of tarmacking a road within Mandera town, which is more than 25 kilometres long. We expect this to encourage investors whose businesses will grow the county’s economic status,” he said.