The National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Regional Development has urged the government to allocate funds for the completion of stalled development projects in the Western and Nyanza regions.

The Committee commended the progress made by the Lake Basin Development Authority (LBDA) on various projects stating that the projects once completed will help bolster the region's economy.

Speaking during an oversight visit to projects managed by LBDA and the Ministry of Devolution, Vice-Chair Hon. Mary Wamaua said that once complete Lake Basin Mall Complex will help in uplifting the locals' living standards through employment opportunities and business activities.

"This project is a great resource aimed at uplifting the standards of living of the locals through employment opportunities and providing an avenue for conducting businesses," she said.

Hon. Wamaua stressed the need for equitable resource distribution to stimulate employment and development across the country.

The Vice-Chair urged LBDA Management to enhance marketing strategies in order to adequately advertise the Mall, suggesting lowering rent rates to attract customers.

“This is a great facility that can be well utilized to benefit the people. I challenge your marketing and publicity teams to enhance advertisement of the premises and look for other lucrative ways including lowering rent rates to attract customers”, said Hon. Wamaua.

The Lake Basin Development Authority (LBDA) Managing Director, CPA Wycliffe Ochiaga, revealed that construction of the Mall began on August 7, 2013, and concluded on April 19, 2016.

"Cooperative Bank provided a Ksh 2.5 billion loan for the project disbursed between 2013 and 2015. However, the current outstanding bank loan stands at Kshs 4.4 billion, inclusive of interest and penalties, with the Mall's occupancy rate at 30%," he said.

Despite financial constraints, LBDA has made commendable progress in project implementation, though some projects are yet to reach full operational capacity due to pending funds.

Members also suggested situating public facilities like Huduma Center at the Mall to increase foot traffic.

Additionally, accessibility challenges to the Mall were noted, particularly regarding road infrastructure.

The Committee also visited the Kisumu International Convection Center; a project managed by the state department for devolution.

Mr. Maurice Ogolla representing PS devolution indicated that the facility when completed, is expected to serve as a multi-sectorial conference center.

Members observed that project had stalled and the contractors were not on site an indication they said showed little or no activity on site.

Mr. Ogolla explained that the project was inactive due to lack of funds and contractors had not been paid at the time of the committee visit.

"We are impressed by the notable projects such as the Kisumu Convention Center and Kisumu Lake Basin Mall. These multi-billion projects confirms the region's inclusion in major government initiatives," said Hon. Abour.

Hon. Paul Abour (Rongo), highlighted the positive impact of LBDA projects in uplifting hundreds of livelihoods across the Nyanza region.

Members committed to engage stakeholders involved in the multi-billion project to ensure its completion.

Hon. Majimbo Kalisanga, hosted the Committee at Kabuchai Constituency where the St. Joseph Nalondo Girls' and Community Water Project was launched aiming to mitigate drought effects.

The project is expected to benefit over 1,200 learners and 4,000 households.

Furthermore, the Committee toured the Nyakoe Market Project in Kisii and a Rice Milling Plant in Kisumu County, witnessing technological upgrades.

They also visited a fingerlings production unit, emphasizing environmental stewardship and educational initiatives in aquaculture.

The Kimira-Oluch Smallholder Farm Improvement Project, funded by the Kenyan government and the African Development Bank, was praised for its potential to improve smallholder farmers' livelihoods.

The completion of the oversight activities now paves the way for forthcoming deliberations in the House based on the Committee's findings.

Members present included Hon. Kombe Harrison, Hon. Julius Mawathe, Hon. Nabulindo Peter, Hon. Cherorot Kimutai, Hon. Khamis Chome, Hon. Paul Abuor, Hon. Tungule Charo, Hon. Yaqub Farah and Hon. Shakeel Shabbir.