Prof. Sylvester Anami Joins PM Party Unveils Bid Of Transforming Economic Agenda for Kakamega County

The People Renaissance Movement (PM) gubernatorial candidate for Kakamega County, Professor Dr. Sylvester Anami from Ikolomani, has unveiled a bold economic transformation agenda aimed at reshaping the county’s future through industrialization, value addition, and inclusive wealth creation.

Prof. Anami, a seasoned academic with extensive experience in research, policy, and institutional development, said his background in higher education has shaped his commitment to evidence-based leadership, disciplined planning, and long-term economic transformation. He emphasized that Kakamega’s progress requires technically grounded and measurable development strategies rather than political promises.

He proposed the establishment of ward-based light industrial hubs to transition the county from a raw-material economy to a value-driven system where communities directly benefit from production and processing. Agriculture, small-scale manufacturing, and artisanal industries, he noted, must be integrated into strong value chains that uplift farmers, youth, and entrepreneurs.

Prof. Anami further stated that Kakamega’s main challenge is not lack of resources, but weak systems for converting effort into income. His plan includes strengthening cooperatives, expanding market access, and investing in skills development aligned with local economic needs. On gold mining in Ikolomani, he emphasized community-centered extraction, fair benefit-sharing, and the use of modern technologies to prevent displacement of residents.

“We cannot continue exporting raw potential while our people remain poor. Kakamega must begin to produce, process, and profit from its own resources,” he said. “Our youth do not need charity—they need systems that create jobs and dignity. Development must be people-centered. If the people are displaced, then development has failed. Within five years, Kakamega will not only talk about poverty—it will be defeating it through industry and innovation.”

He pledged that within five years, the county would experience significant poverty reduction and job creation driven by industrial growth.

In a related political development, the PM party has reported a growing wave of defections of leaders and supporters joining its ranks, which it says reflects increasing public trust in its agenda for peaceful and inclusive governance.

According to the party’s National Executive Director, Anthony Mbuluma, the momentum demonstrates Kenyans’ desire for a stable and accountable political alternative, but he warned that it must not be accompanied by intimidation or violence.

“We note the growing number of leaders and supporters defecting to PM, a clear sign of Kenyans’ desire for a peaceful, inclusive, and accountable political alternative,” said Mbuluma. “However, this momentum must not be met with intimidation or violence. We call for immediate and decisive action to apprehend those responsible for these acts.”

He further urged respect for constitutional freedoms and warned against any actions that could destabilize the political environment ahead of future elections.

“Kenya cannot afford to head into a premature election, especially in light of the painful lessons from 2018. As a party committed to peace, PM stands for a stable and secure nation. We urge authorities to protect the constitutional rights of all Kenyans to assemble and engage politically without fear,” he added.