Homa Bay residents eye long-term gains from Devolution Conference

The lakeside town is already abuzz with activity as visitors arrive from across the country, creating a windfall for local businesses and spilling demand into neighbouring counties.

With hotels and guesthouses fully booked, some visitors are seeking alternative arrangements, including pitching tents beside their cars.

“Event kama hii ile changamoto ambayo tumeona ni kwamba hatuna rooms. Sasa vile watu wamekuja, wengine wenye wako na gari tunawapea tents, unalala tu kando ya gari yako,” said one hospitality operator.

Local traders say the event has brought unprecedented business, while residents point to visible infrastructural improvements.

“Biashara ya leo tunaona iko sambamba.Ata hii street nimesimama, inaotwa Phoebe Asiyo Street, haikukuwa na barabara. Lakini saa hii mambo ya devolution imefanya tuko na barabara,” noted Stephen Odhiambo, a Homa Bay resident.

Ahead of the conference, thousands participated in the Roan Antelope Half Marathon at Ruma National Park, an event aimed at showcasing the county’s natural attractions.

“Let us run. It is a course for unity, and it is our heritage. It is a celebration to acknowledge that we are the home of champions,” said Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano.

“We have over 16 islands of Lake Victoria that can be experienced. We offer a dual experience of things which you cannot see anywhere else, so our county is open for tourism.”