North Rift Economic Bloc: Awakening a Sleeping Giant.

 By Ekaale Ekuam

The North Rift Economic Bloc was a brainchild of the realization that counties in this region share similar challenges whose solutions lie in a united approach to harnessing joint economic power, resources, and potential. Though NOREB began very promisingly, it has struggled to live up to these ambitious goals. Now, with the revival efforts being fronted by governors in the region, there is a pressing need for working anew on the bloc's priorities and strategies that will enable it to unlock its full economic potential.

The Potential of the Great Rift Valley

The Great Rift Valley is a gem waiting to be tapped. From scenic landscapes to rich cultural heritage and exciting historical sites, the potential of this region abounds in regard to tourism and other economic activities. However, if NOREB is to finally realize this vision, it has to get around the hurdles that have so far stunted its growth.

Why Has NOREB Struggled?

Over the last eight years, many challenges hit the NOREB plan, with a shortage of funding top on the list. With far-reaching goals for coordinating joint activities valued at over Sh200 billion, NOREB remained crippled due to a shortage of financial resources and an appropriate legal framework. There were hostile legislations that were absent, making the activities of NOREB stall or remain in limbo.

More fundamentally, the divided loyalty of counties, such as Nandi and Trans Nzoia, between NOREB and the Lake Basin Economic Bloc diluted efforts. Effectively, it has been a bloc largely in the ICU, despite its immense potential that it held.

Strategic Focus Areas

As the NOREB gets ready for a comeback, it needs to cast its attention on strategic priority areas which spur economic gains. Here is the roadmap for the bloc,

There lies an incredible opportunity for greatness in riches through tourism in the Great Rift Valley. From the Annual International Maralal Camel Derby to the Lake Turkana Cultural Week, so much is possible in the sphere of cultural tourism. The NOREB should aim at developing world-class infrastructure in tourism, marketing the region internationally, and developing cooperation with global tourism players.

Furthermore, this bloc's trade can be driven through the market linkages for major products, such as milk and cereals, which are already doing well in this region. There will be a need for an integrated trade policy to ensure that NOREB member counties benefit from economies of scale while accessing larger markets.

NOREB will only be successful if it establishes a strong governance structure that is in line with accountability and transparency. The assenting to the NOREB Bill 2023 was a step in the right direction. By entrenching the bloc in law, member counties can ensure that activities implemented by the bloc shall be legally binding, and there is continuity in implementation regardless of political changes.

It should therefore encompass social development, focusing on health, education, and culture integration. NOREB can exchange experiences of good practice and serve as a resource bank for solving common social problems.

Development has been greatly hampered by insecurity, especially in volatile areas such as Kerio Valley. NOREB should partner with national security agencies to secure these areas. Better security will not just spur economic growth, but it will also enhance trust and cohesion among the people in the counties that make up the member counties.

Cultural and sporting activities between counties could be encouraged to address these divides and build some regional identity.

Infrastructure acts as the backbone for economic growth. Thus, a lead priority that NOREB has to make is in the development of transport and communication networks that link member counties. Through improved road networks, rail links, and digital connectivity, NOREB can facilitate the movement of goods, services, and people across the region.

The North Rift region is the breadbasket of Kenya. However, these are challenged by climatic change and land degradation, which dim agricultural productivity. NOREB should be interested in investing in sustainable farming practices, irrigation projects, and climate adaptation strategies to ensure food security.

Environmental conversation should equally be addressed. Forest, water body, and wildlife conversation efforts will not only preserve the beauty of the region's environment but will also drive tourism and agriculture.

The youths represent the future of the North Rift. Therefore, NOREB should focus its priority on the empowerment of youths through skills development, entrepreneurship programs, and access to finance. In giving opportunities to its youth, the bloc shall unlock a deep pool of talent and energy that will propel innovation and economic growth.

The mainstay of funding for NOREB's activities will be resource mobilization, both from within the region and external partnerships. It will be through good links with development partners, private investors, and international organizations that NOREB shall secure financial resources for its ambitious plan.

The revival of the North Rift Economic Bloc is thus a step in the realization of this region's full potential. This would need equal contributions from various stakeholders that will include county governments, the private sector, and development partners. With a strong focus on strategic priority areas and conquering the challenges that have thwarted NOREB's progress, it can be changed into a thriving business center in the Great Rift Valley for all its inhabitants.

The time to act is now. With appropriate strategies rooted in commitment to collaboration, NOREB can be a model of economic growth and regional integration in Kenya.

Author,

Is a Freelance Writer, Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management Consultant.