President Uhuru Kenyatta is in Kisumu for the official launch of the Africities conference, which is in its ninth edition.
Some delegates began arriving at the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium, where the event is being hosted, as early as 6.30 a.m.
Former President of the Republic of Seychelles Danny Faure and the President of United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) Africa are among the luminaries who have arrived at the conference.
A delegation of Egyptian governors, including Dr. Manal Awad of Damietta, Abdelhamid Elhaggan of Al Qalyoubia, and Ambassador Mohamed Higazy, is also present.
The gathering is attended by a number of local leaders, including Devolution CS Eugene Wamalwa, Environment CS Keriako Tobiko, Education CS George Magoha, and a number of local Members of Parliament.
Other traditional dancers, the Kenya Police Band, and various choirs entertain the delegates in the main pavilion.
According to the schedule, Governor Anyang Nyong’o of Kenya will offer the opening remarks, followed by Council of Governors Chairman Martin Wambora and Christine Mba Ndutume, President of United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) Africa.
The delegates will subsequently be addressed virtually by African Union Ambassador Lupita Nyong’o, UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohamed, and US Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Change John Kerry.
Moussa Faki, the chairperson of the African Union Commission, will speak at the conference, as will Devolution CS Eugene Wamalwa.
The event will culminate with President Uhuru’s remarks and the official inauguration of the summit.
Following that, the President will hold a high-level discussion on infrastructure and urban development before inspecting the exhibition area.
Over 200 exhibitors have registered to present their exhibits at the summit. Over 8,000 people are expected to attend the conference.
“The role of intermediary cities in Africa in the execution of the United Nations 2030 Agenda and the African Union Agenda 2063,” is this year’s summit theme.
