Lake Region Economic Bloc (LREB)

About

The Lake Region Economic Bloc ( LREB) is one of the six economic Blocs adopted in Kenya and consists of 14 counties: Bomet, Bungoma, Busia, Homabay, Kakamega, Kericho, Kisii, Kisumu, Migori, Nandi, Nyamira, Siaya, Transnzoia, Vihiga around Lake Victoria and its environs. Like other economic blocs in the country, LREB was established under the realization that while the devolved system of government promises to address long-running political challenges of inclusive governance, the counties may be too small to leverage economies of scale.

The Constitution of Kenya 2010 introduced a devolved system of governance that not only brings decision-making structures and processes closer to the people but also creates opportunities for regional growth and development. This includes increased participation of the citizens in the planning and implementation of development plans for their counties. The blocs exist with the understanding that strategic connections between counties with shared interests can be an effective means of optimizing or creating notable development opportunities and impact across several counties.

The overall objective of the Bloc is to leverage economies of scale and shared resources in order to grow the economy of the region and improve the livelihood of the people. This includes developing policies and programs aimed at widening and enhancing cooperation among the member counties in economic, industrial, social, technological, and research fields, for their mutual benefit. The principles that guide the achievement of the objective include the values and principles set out in the constitution and laws of Kenya; mutual trust, political will, and equality; equitable distribution of the costs and benefits of cooperation; cooperation for mutual benefit; adherence to the principles of devolved government established in Article 175 of the Constitution of Kenya; peaceful coexistence and good neighborliness; and peaceful settlement of disputes.

Vision

To be a world-class Bloc in the promotion of sustainable, equitable socio-economic development for a better life.

Mission

To achieve sustainable development through coordination, promotion, resource mobilization, innovation, and enhancement of equitable economic integration in the lake region.