Siaya:The Siaya International Trade and Investment Conference (SITICO) was intended to be a significant event aimed at boosting the county’s economy, with months of planning and invitations extended to potential investors across the country. However, the event was abruptly halted on the opening day due to the unexpected death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga in India.
According to Kenya News Agency, Raila Odinga was set to preside over the closing ceremony of the conference, which was planned to open on October 15, 2025, at the Siaya National Polytechnic grounds. Siaya County Secretary Elizabeth Adongo recounted that extensive preparations had been underway, with Odinga having confirmed that President William Ruto would officially open the conference on October 16, followed by Odinga’s closing on October 17.
Adongo described the atmosphere on the day the conference was to begin, with numerous guests, including senior private sector figures, already present. However, as rumors of Odinga’s death spread, shock took hold of the attendees. The official announcement of his passing led to widespread mourning, transforming the conference venue into a place of congregation for grieving.
The decision to cancel the event was made in consultation with county and national government officials. Adongo noted that all involved, including industry leaders and investors who had connections with Odinga, agreed that the conference could not proceed as planned.
Despite the setback, Adongo highlighted the achievements made possible by Odinga’s involvement in the event’s preparations. His efforts helped identify key investment opportunities and partners, contributing to ongoing developments in sectors like energy and agriculture. Projects such as a proposed nuclear plant and investments in the sugar sector were among those profiled and advanced through the conference’s groundwork.
Adongo emphasized that, although the conference was canceled, Odinga’s legacy in Siaya endures. His influence spans culture, heritage, economics, and governance, with notable contributions to infrastructure development and the growth of the blue economy in the lake region. Discussions are ongoing to reschedule the conference at a more suitable time, continuing the work inspired by his vision.
