LVBC to Occupy New Headquarters Along Lake Victoria, Marking Milestone in EAC Cooperation

Nairobi, Kenya — September 26, 2025 (EAT).

The Lake Victoria Basin Commission (LVBC) is preparing to move into its newly built headquarters on the shores of Lake Victoria in Kisumu, a landmark development in East African Community (EAC) integration and regional cooperation. 

The Latest

• LVBC Executive Secretary Dr. Masinde Bwire revealed that phases one and two of the construction are now complete, allowing for immediate occupancy, even as the final phase is scheduled to begin in October at an estimated cost of KSh 207 million. 

• The total projected cost for the new headquarters is about KSh 784 million, combining prior work and the final phase. 

• The handover of the building to LVBC was formalised by Principal Secretary Joel Arumonyang of the State Department for Public Works during a ceremony in Kisumu. 

• The headquarters sits on a 2.8-acre parcel of land donated by the Government of Kenya in 2016 and is located strategically along the lake’s edge to reflect LVBC’s mission. 

• Although not all works are finished, the building is considered operational. The defects liability period is to run for one year, and the final phase is expected to be delivered on schedule. 

Context and Significance

• LVBC is a specialised institution under the East African Community mandated to coordinate sustainable development and environmental management in the Lake Victoria Basin, which spans Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi. 

• Among EAC institutions, LVBC is unique in being headquartered outside the capital cities of member states, reflecting its regional and environmental focus. 

• In December 2024, the EAC Council of Ministers approved additional funding of USD 802,126 (approx. KSh 103.4 million) to support completion of the new headquarters. 

• The new headquarters is expected to enhance LVBC’s capacity to deliver services and coordinate among partner states in areas including climate-resilient development, water management, pollution control, and biodiversity conservation. 

Stakeholder Perspectives

• Dr. Masinde Bwire: The new facility is “an icon of EAC integration and a symbol of our commitment to regional cooperation.” 

• PS Joel Arumonyang: The building handover marks improved infrastructure for the commission to deliver services more efficiently. 

• EAC Secretary General (via prior approvals): The extra funding was meant to ensure the project met standards and remained on track. 

Risks, Challenges & What to Watch

• Completion risk: The third phase is yet to begin, and delays or cost overruns could arise.

• Operational integration: Transitioning staff, functions, and data to the new building without disrupting ongoing projects will require careful planning.

• Regional expectations: Partner states will watch whether the facility translates into stronger coordination and impact, not just a physical symbol.

• Sustainability: Maintaining the facility, especially in a lakeside environment (humidity, structural stress), will require ongoing investment and upkeep.