Explore opportunities in Kenya, Raila urges Australian investors

Coalition for Reforms and Democracy (CORD) leader, Raila Odinga, has encouraged Australian investors to explore investment opportunities in Kenya.

In a discussion with Mathew Neuhaus, the Assistant Secretary, Africa Branch of Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Raila said investment by Australian investors would encourage equitable distribution of opportunities and growth in Kenya.

Odinga also appealed to the Australian Government to support the strengthening of village polytechnics and vocational training centres as a way of addressing youth unemployment.

The ODM party leader also exuded confidence in the country’s Constitution, saying it is the best in the world.

“I am confident that the Constitution of 2010 remains one of the most progressive in the world, with elaborate provisions on human rights, decentralisation of governance and strong provisions on gender parity,” he said.

Raila called on the Australian Government to help Kenya boost national security by assisting in the fight against terrorism.

He asked for close working relations between Kenya and Australia in a bid to improve the mining sector.

Neuhaus, who was visiting Kenya after stopovers in Zimbabwe and Ethiopia, said his country is watching Kenya’s war on corruption and the implementation of the Constitution with keen interest.

He expressed the Australian Government’s readiness to help county governments create capacity, saying a number of governors have already visited Australia for study tours.

Other officials present were Australian High Commissioner John Feakes and Nominated Senator Dr Agnes Zani.

The meeting was held at the Australian High Commission in Nairobi.