Businessman and politician Johnson Oduk has renewed his call to both local and foreign investors to consider Homa Bay County—particularly Ndhiwa and its surrounding areas—as a prime and secure destination for business investment, saying the region holds immense untapped economic potential.
Speaking during the opening of a modern mega hardware store in Ndhiwa town, an event he attended alongside renowned business investor Vikash Sairam, Oduk said deliberate investment in the region would significantly transform livelihoods and stimulate long-term economic growth.
“Homa Bay, and Ndhiwa in particular, is a safe haven for investment. When investors come in, they create jobs, empower families and help reduce crime by giving young people meaningful opportunities,” Oduk said.
He noted that the newly opened hardware is expected to employ more than 150 people directly and indirectly, adding that the investor plans to inject additional capital into other ventures as Ndhiwa’s economy continues to expand.
Beyond the construction sector, Oduk said Homa Bay offers lucrative opportunities in the fishing industry, given its proximity to Lake Victoria. He pointed out that there is huge potential in fish processing plants, cold storage facilities, boat building, fish feed production and value addition for both local consumption and export markets.
“The fishing industry here is still largely untapped. Investors can venture into modern fish processing, packaging and export, which would greatly benefit local fishermen and boost incomes,” he said.
Oduk also highlighted the transport sector as another key area for investment, noting the growing demand for efficient movement of goods and people within Ndhiwa, across Homa Bay County and to neighbouring regions. He said opportunities exist in public transport services, logistics and haulage, motorcycle and vehicle assembly, as well as lake transport to support fishing and tourism activities.
“As business grows, transport becomes the backbone of trade. Investing in transport and logistics will make Ndhiwa a true commercial hub,” Oduk added.
He further cited opportunities in food production and agro-processing, hospitality and hotel development, housing projects, renewable energy, retail trade and warehousing, saying these sectors could thrive if supported by private capital.
On the broader economic impact, Oduk stressed that attracting more investors to Homa Bay and Ndhiwa would expand the county’s revenue base, improve infrastructure, and increase household incomes.
“When investors set up here, money circulates within the local economy. County revenue improves, services get better and living standards rise,” he said.
On his part, Vikash Sairam praised Ndhiwa’s favourable business climate, saying the area offers a peaceful environment and a welcoming community for entrepreneurs.
“Ndhiwa has a very good ambience for business. The environment is calm, the people are supportive and the town is growing fast. I encourage other investors to come and explore the many opportunities available here,” Sairam said.
The leaders expressed optimism that sustained private sector investment would position Homa Bay and Ndhiwa as key economic drivers in the Nyanza region, creating jobs, fostering innovation and accelerating inclusive development.
