Meru youth benefit as Shofco disburses Ksh30 million business loans 

Hundreds of young entrepreneurs from Meru County have benefited from loans worth Ksh30 million disbursed by a non-governmental organisation through its SACCO arm.

Governor Isaac Mutuma praised the initiatives, reaffirming the county government’s commitment to collaborating with non-governmental organisations that support youth empowerment. He made the remarks as young entrepreneurs in Meru County received loans through Shofco Sacco at a concessional interest rate of six per cent.

“Partners like the Shining Hope for Communities (Shofco) have become valued development partners in Meru. Through their programmes, thousands of residents have benefited through youth empowerment initiatives, gender-based violence response programmes, and training opportunities for young women,” said Mutuma.

The governor said the county government values organizations that collaborate closely with local communities to tackle critical social and economic challenges.

“My administration believes so deeply in the integrity and the impact of these partnerships. I’m proud to see members of my own county staff formally joining hands with Shofco to run these programmes,” he said.

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Nicholas Kirimi, a young entrepreneur who runs a salon and engages in farming, said the financial assistance would enable him to grow and expand his business operations.

“The loan has come at the right time for my business. I’m planning to buy more equipment and improve the salon so that I can attract more customers,” Kirimi stated.

Dr. Kennedy Odede, Shofco CEO, said the organisation is committed to uplifting vulnerable communities through targeted empowerment programmes.

“Our mission is to create opportunities for people to transform their own lives,” said Odede.

The loan distribution coincided with the weekend launch of a new Shofco Community Resource Centre. The facility features a library, community hall, and a computer laboratory offering free digital skills training to local residents.

During the launch, three community-based organizations (CBOs) were also awarded cash grants to expand income-generating opportunities for young women and mothers.

“The launch of this Community Resource Centre and the support being extended to young entrepreneurs and community groups will have a lasting impact. Empowering our youth and women is one of the surest ways to drive economic growth and reduce poverty,” said Mutuma.

He urged beneficiaries to take full advantage of the facilities and opportunities available at the centre to improve their livelihoods and personal development.

Caption: Meru Governor Isaac Mutuma speaking at the inauguration of the Miraa Promotion Committee and the County Aggregation and Industrial Park (CAIP) Management Committee on May 25, 2026.

By Frank Mugwe

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