The inaugural Lake Region Economic Bloc (LREB) Climate Change and Agri-Expo Summit 2025, Kakamega Edition, has been called off following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga.

The event, which began on Tuesday at Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) in Kakamega, was expected to last for three days, but unfortunately, it was cut short to honour the fallen statesman.

LREB Governors said they made this decision in relation to the directives issued by President William Ruto that all government institutions across the country should halt their day-to-day activities as the country mourns Odinga.

“The leadership of LREB has resolved to suspend all activities of the Climate Change and Agri-Expo Summit in respect of our departed hero, Raila Odinga. We join the nation in mourning and honoring his immense contribution to our country,” the Governors said in a joint statement.

Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa, Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka, and Vihiga Governor Dr. Wilber Ottichilo were among the governors who had attended the event.

Also Read: Ruto Announces 7-Day Mourning Period, Issues Key Directives After Raila Odinga’s Death

What LREB Governors Discussed During the 12th Summit

The 12th summit happened at Alupe University in Busia County in December 2024.

County Governors from LREB urged the Senate, National Assembly, and the Council of Governors to review the public-private partnership framework.

According to them, the review will create a friendly environment for workers.

LREB Chairperson, who is also Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang Nyong’o, said there was a need to remove the unfair legal procedures that were currently required for the use of public-private and partnership in counties.

“Public-private partnership is available in Kenya and should be used by both the County and National government to implement the projects,” he stated.

Siaya Governor James Orengo highlighted how resources from the exchequer were not being given time, something that led to the failure of the devolution process.

“We must continue to fight for the Counties,” he said.

Additionally, he noted the difficulties counties face while implementing public-private partnerships when legal framework allows only the National Government to use it.

Kakamega Governor, Fernandes Barasa, said the region’s resource mobilization of equitable revenue distribution was a major challenge.

He added that there was a need to eliminate inefficiencies at the office of the Controller of Budget so that there are no delays in releasing funds.

“We will be looking forward to engaging more with our development partners and colleagues so that we can finance our activities,” he said.

Also Read: Crowd Overruns JKIA as Raila Odinga’s Body Arrives in Nairobi

What President Ruto Directed to All Top Govt Officials.

President William Ruto has directed that all top government officials stop flying the national flag on their official motor vehicles for 7 days as the nation mourns the death of Raila.

He also urged government officials to suspend their normal duties unless it is urgent, to honour the fallen statesman.

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Governor Dr. Ochilo Ayacko and other LREB governors had crucial meeting with Treasury CS John Mbadi at the Treasury Building in Nairobi. PHOTO/MC