13/12/2023
**Dr. Paul Nyongesa Otuoma Pledges Transformation for Busia County**
*Busia, Kenya* — H.E. Dr. Paul Nyongesa Otuoma, in a resounding commitment, has vowed to **transform Busia County** into a thriving and conducive environment for its residents. Speaking at the **Jamhuri Day Celebrations** in **Nambale**, Dr. Otuoma outlined a visionary roadmap for progress.
**Key Points:**
1. **Export Processing Zone (EPZ)**: Dr. Otuoma revealed that the tender for the EPZ construction at Nasewa has been advertised. This milestone project aims to position Busia as a major logistics hub for **East and Central Africa**. Busia is among the four Kenyan counties set to benefit from this initiative.
2. **Intergovernmental Partnership**: The county recently signed a crucial agreement with the **Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment (MITI)**. This collaboration ensures that funds will be released for the timely completion of the EPZ project.
3. **Protecting Busia's Interests**: Dr. Otuoma firmly objected to relocating the **Malaba dry port** to Bungoma. He assured residents that such a move would not happen under his leadership.
4. **Reviving Collapsed Ginneries**: Dr. Otuoma pledged to work with elected leaders to revive collapsed ginneries across the county. This effort aims to empower local farmers and boost economic growth.
5. **Infrastructure Development**: Busia town will see improved infrastructure to attract investment and serve as a gateway to **East and Central Africa**.
6. **Ward-Based Economic Projects**: The Department of Agriculture, in collaboration with Members of County Assembly, will champion projects to enhance agricultural production and economic revitalization.
7. **Combatting Drug Theft**: Dr. Otuoma expressed concern about missing drugs in health facilities. He committed to implementing mechanisms to track medical supplies and prevent theft.
8. **Level Four Hospitals**: Each sub-county in Busia will have a level four hospital, easing pressure on the **Busia County Referral Hospital (BCRH)**.
9. **Sealing Revenue Leakages**: Dr. Otuoma's final promise is to ensure prudent use of collected revenue for the benefit of all residents.
Busia County stands on the brink of positive change, guided by Dr. Paul Otuoma's