Tharaka Nithi Woman Representative Susan Ngugi has issued cheques worth Sh1 million from the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF) to various groups in the region to boost their livelihoods.
The cheques were handed over to the groups during her tour in Chuka Igamba Ng’ombe constituency.
The funds were meant to boost different projects carried out by the groups, boost production, and improve their livelihood.
The groups included Vision Self-Help Group from Kithangani, which received Sh108,000 for dairy goats; Wendani Self-Help Group got Sh108,000 for buying an egg layering incubator; Karoma Youth Self-Help Group; Gakoro from Kamutiria; and Kangu Young Stars received Sh238,000 each for table banking.
Others included Mbogoni Goat Traders from Igamatundu, who got Sh108,000 for dairy goats, and Afya Bora Self-Help Group from Kajuki, who received Sh108, 000 for dairy cows.
Speaking to the media at Kaanwa Market, Chuka Igamba Ng’ombe constituency, the Woman Representative said that when groups put extra effort into their set projects, they are allowed to apply for more funds.
Ms. Ngugi revealed that before the cheques are issued, the groups are assessed, and if the funds allocated for their projects are insufficient, more money would be given to the team.
“Before we issue cheques, I visit and assess different groups and their projects, and if the money allocated is not enough to finish the project, the group is open to applying for more funds,” she said.
She cautioned residents against fraudsters using social media to claim money deposits required in order to receive NGAAF funds, adding that the money is issued by the government and is non-refundable.
However, Ms. Ngugi clarified that Uwezo funds, which are disbursed by Members of Parliament (MPs), are refundable over a specific period of time.
The Woman Representative noted that plans were underway through her office and the county government to build rehabilitation and rescue centres to help accommodate drug addicts as well as defiled, special, and vulnerable children.
She explained that she has liaised with Governor Muthomi Njuki for public land to construct the centres, adding that the projects would commence immediately the land is released.
“I will build the rehab centre in Kathwana, furnish it, put in the necessary equipment and necessities, and hand it over to the government to run it,” she said.
Some of the members of the group expressed their gratitude and assured that they would put the funds offered by the government into good use.
By Sharon Gitau
