Kaimosi Friends University (KAFU), Number One Wood Company (China) and the East Africa Yearly Meeting Friends Church Kaimosi are exploring a partnership that would result in the establishment of a plywood processing plant within the Kaimosi Complex.
In a meeting chaired by the Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Peter N. Mwita on September 4, 2024 at KAFU, he noted that KAFU stands a better chance to gain substantially from the construction of the proposed plant within its locality. This will include access to industrial expertise, training opportunities for students, platforms for research and development, and potential sponsorship for a wood science program.”
He emphasized that this collaboration aligns with the University's commitment to fostering industry partnerships that enhance academic growth and community development.
Prof. Mwita expressed great enthusiasm for the proposed partnership, highlighting its potential to foster public-private collaborations and reinforced industry linkages. He emphasized that such partnerships are vital in enhancing the University's academic offerings while contributing to the broader socio-economic development of the region.
Under the proposed agreement, the project envisions leasing approximately 15 acres of land from the Church to One Wood Company for a five-year period. It is expected the factory will foster mutual benefits to the Church, University, local community, and itself.
The Chief Executive Officer of One Wood Company, Liu Rui Lin, said that his company's proposal includes leasing the church’s 15-acre parcel of land for five years, with an option for extension. He reiterated that the creation of the intended factory will positively impact the growth of KAFU together with the local community. The venture has the prospects of providing the University with research and innovation opportunities for skills development, technology transfer, and implementation of innovative waste management practices.
Additionally, it is expected to create job opportunities for approximately 100-200 employees from amongst KAFU’s graduates and the local community. “Our company is cognizant of the global climate change threats and demands. We are committed to utilizing the available local resources prudently while maintaining sustainable environmental practices,” said Liu Rui Lin.
Initially, KAFU had been identified as an appropriate host for the project and had developed an advance Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to lease part of its land for the launch of the factory. However, after careful consideration, the University Management Board suggested that the location of the church land was a more suitable site for development of the plant for ease of access to the local community.
Speaking during the meeting, the General Secretary of the East Africa Yearly Meeting Friends Church Kaimosi, Mr. Ephraim Konzolo stated that the church is welcome to the foundation of the proposed project within its land. “We are optimistic that the lease revenue earnings from this agreement will augment our church’s income and operations. In addition, activities of the anticipated factory will create job opportunities for our congregants,” Mr. Konzolo said.
He further appreciated the role played by the University Management in attracting the project and inching talks that have inspired a possible partnership between the Church and Number One Wood Company.