Vihiga County has taken a major step towards industrial transformation following a visit by a delegation from the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC).
The team, which was received at the County headquarters by Governor Wilber Khasilwa Ottichilo, is in the region to assess the viability of establishing Kenya’s first factory dedicated to engineered bamboo products.
The delegation’s visit included engagement with local bamboo farmers and assessment of potential sites for the proposed facility. The initiative underscores growing international interest in Vihiga’s untapped bamboo potential, and aligns with the county’s broader green economy agenda.
Governor Ottichilo expressed appreciation to bamboo farming advocate Victor Mwanga, acknowledging his role in attracting the investment opportunity through innovation and commitment to the bamboo value chain. He commended Mwanga’s efforts as a demonstration of homegrown solutions capable of driving sustainable development.
“As a county, we are committed to building resilient green value chains. Bamboo offers not only economic prospects but also critical environmental solutions, particularly in the restoration of wetlands,” said Governor Ottichilo.
The Governor further assured the CCECC team of Vihiga’s readiness to support investors through a conducive policy and investment environment.
CCECC’s interest in Vihiga adds momentum to the county’s vision of becoming a hub for green manufacturing, with bamboo at the centre of its climate-smart economic transformation strategy.
By Ian Mugamangi and Rose Wasike
