Cooperatives and SMEs Cabinet Secretary (CS) Wycliffe Oparanya has emphasized the importance of forming cooperatives among beneficiaries of the Uwezo Fund.
He highlighted that by coming together; individuals can create a larger pool of resources, enabling them to get more substantial funding for their business ventures.
Oparanya stated, “When you join cooperatives, you have an opportunity to borrow more money. We have funds available in the Kenya Development Corporation (KDC) and Kenya Industrial Estates (KIE) that can support your initiatives.”
His message resonated particularly with the youth, whom he encouraged to shift focus from traditional white-collar jobs to entrepreneurship and industrial development, fostering self-sufficiency and economic growth.
During an event hosted by Ikolomani Member of Parliament (MP) Benard Shinali recently, Oparanya announced the allocation of Ksh 72 million from the Uwezo Fund, designated for distribution across the 12 constituencies in Kakamega County.
He underscored the necessity for the community to utilize these funds effectively and ensure timely repayment to enable further disbursements.
The Uwezo Fund, which totals Ksh 7.9 billion for the region, has only seen Ksh292 million dispersed since its establishment in 2014, signifying a need for improved engagement.
Oparanya praised local groups in Ikolomani for their responsible investment and punctual loan repayments, serving as a model for others.
He called upon elected representatives to lead efforts in educating their constituents about the Uwezo Fund and the benefits of cooperative formation.
“It’s crucial that MPs actively engage with their communities to promote the formation of groups that can access these funds,” he stated.
Additionally, he pointed out that 15 constituencies had yet to establish Uwezo Fund Committees, hampering the fund’s outreach.
He gave a 30-day ultimatum for the formation of these committees, stressing, “If these committees are not in place after this period, no MP or Woman Rep should blame me. These funds are meant to empower everyone, regardless of gender or age.” He said
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The CS highlighted the government’s commitment to improving livelihoods through accessible funding, urging community leaders to take proactive steps in harnessing these resources for the betterment of their constituents.
“Everyone has a right to borrow these funds—it’s our collective responsibility to ensure they reach those who need them most.” He stated.
The CS was with SMSEs PS Susan Mang’eni, Kakamega Deputy Governor Ayub Savula, Kakamega Woman Rep Elsie Muhanda, Ikolomani MP Benard Shinali, his Shinyalu counter part Fred Ikana, Malulu Injendi of Malava, Bishop Titus Khamala of Lurambi and Navakholo’s Emmanuel Wangwe.
By Calistus Imbayi
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