By C, KNA
Traders in Siaya County have been urged to strategically prepare for the economic opportunities expected from the Kenya Inter-Counties Sports and Cultural Association (KICOSA) Games to be held in Siaya county, which will kick off on November 24 and run for one week.
County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Sports, Tourism and Culture, Angeline Oduor, said the event is set to attract visitors from all 47 counties, creating a major business boost across the region.
Speaking during a preparation inspection of the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Stadium in Siaya town, Oduor encouraged local traders and service providers to adequately stock their businesses and prepare for the influx of visitors expected during the games.
She noted that participants from all 47 counties would be arriving in Siaya, creating a rare opportunity for businesses to boost their earnings.
The CECM pointed out that the hospitality industry including hotels, eateries, and entertainment establishments stand to gain significantly.
With hundreds of sports and cultural delegates expected, Oduor said the demand for food, beverages and related services would surge during the week-long event.
Oduor highlighted that the games will be spread across more than 20 venues in the county, requiring traders in various locations to be well-prepared.
The activities will include a wide range of sporting and cultural competitions such as football, volleyball, athletics, cultural dances, music performances, and traditional games.
She also highlighted the accommodation sector as a key beneficiary, urging hotel owners and managers to ensure their facilities are ready to host the visitors. According to her, the anticipated high number of guests means that proper planning will be essential to avoid shortages.
Transport operators were similarly advised to prepare for increased activity. Oduor noted that reliable mobility within and around Siaya will be crucial for smooth movement of teams and officials participating in the games.
“I want to tell those in business within Siaya that they should have enough stock to serve the expected visitors. These are people who will be having money to spend while they are here with us for the duration of the games so we should ensure that there is enough supply to cater for the large number of visitors.”
The CECM further stressed that the county government is working to ensure all logistics surrounding the games are adequately handled. This includes security, venue readiness and coordination among various stakeholders.
She added that hosting the KICOSA Games is not only an opportunity for economic activity but also a chance to showcase Siaya’s cultural richness and tourism attractions. Oduor encouraged residents to extend warm hospitality to the visitors.