The Catholic Church has increased its real estate portfolio with the opening of the Diocese Mall in Kakamega.
The 38,000 square feet shopping complex is only the second in Kakamega and the only one with an escalator, a feature that has excited residents who have been thronging to mall to feel the experience.
Naivas, is the anchor tenant at the mall with its 101st store. The Supermarket’s Director and the Head of Administration, Charles Mbugua said as they expand their chains, they are also providing employment opportunities to the majority of Kenyans.
The Kakamega branch has offered employment to over 100 Kenyans bringing to a total of 12 000 employees at Naivas across the country. Mbugua says that 40 per cent of the new employees are locals with the majority of them posted to other branches across the country.
The Director noted that the provision of a section for fresh produce is unique to attract more customers while at the same time giving opportunities for local farmers to supply fresh produce.
“All the fresh produce we are sourcing from farmers in Kakamega as we envision to grow the economy of this area and the country at large through our supermarket,” he added.
Kakamega Diocese Mall is located in the town center on Kisumu Highway linking webuye road just next to Catholic Diocese church. Its second wing which is still under construction will rise to 14 floors making it the tallest building in Kakamega once completed.
The tower will consist of roof top coffee shops, office space, Ground floor for supermarket, office spaces, parking space for 200 cars, elevators, among many.
Kakamega Governor has said that the mall will not only generate over 1,000 direct jobs but also unlock investment opportunities for the town and the broader County.
Speaking yesterday during a Thanksgiving Mass conducted by Rt. Rev Joseph Obanyi Sagwe at the mall, Governor Barasa emphasized that his Wealth Creation and Infrastructure Development pillar aligns with such initiatives, urging more investors to explore opportunities in Kakamega County.
Bishop Obanyi revealed that he has been in close consultation with the Governor right from the inception of the idea to construct the mall, and throughout the construction period. The Bishop also lauded his immediate predecessor and the pioneer Bishop of the Kakamega Diocese, Rt. Rev. Philip Sulumeti, who was also present at the ceremony, for his input along the process.
Governor Barasa closed his remarks by committing to collaborate with KeNHA officials in establishing a footbridge and installing necessary road signage to enhance safety at the mall..
