Thirty-one women, youth and men’s groups in Kiambu Township Constituency have received Sh6.2 million from Uwezo Fund to support their businesses and strengthen their economic activities.

The cheques were disbursed by Kiambu Township Member of Parliament Machua Waithaka, accompanied by Kiambu County Director of Youth Affairs John Mwangi with the aim to promote entrepreneurship, expand small enterprises and improve livelihoods.

Waithaka said the beneficiaries’ experiences showed how access to financial support could help entrepreneurs grow their businesses and establish sustainable sources of income.

“What made the occasion particularly inspiring was listening to beneficiaries share their journeys, how they started with little, built their businesses and gradually grew their entrepreneurial ventures through financial support,” he said.

The MP said the funding was intended to help groups develop stronger enterprises that generate income, create jobs and contribute to the local economy.

He added that supporting women, men and young people through enterprise development was important in promoting economic self-reliance.

Also, present were Women Enterprise Fund representatives Nasra Yusuf, Kennedy Ogola and Benard Guama, who briefed the groups on additional funding opportunities available through the fund to support business growth and expansion.

The programme brought together groups seeking resources to sustain existing activities and pursue new business opportunities.

Waithaka urged residents to register their self-help groups and community-based organisations with the Department of Social Services, saying formal registration and proper documentation could help them access relevant government empowerment programmes and other development opportunities.

He encouraged groups to keep proper records and familiarize themselves with the eligibility requirements of funding programmers to improve their preparedness when applying for assistance.

The MP said he would continue supporting initiatives that empower residents and strengthen local enterprises.

“When we invest in our people, we invest in the future of Kiambu,” he said.

By Winjoy Makena and Grace Naishoo