Marginalised communities have been encouraged to take advantage of Uwezo funds so as to grow financially.
Speaking on Monday during a one day workshop at Narok North Youth Empowerment hall, Gender Principal Secretary (PS), Ms. Sabina Kwekwe said only 23 groups in Narok North constituency had benefited from the special funds given to youths, women and persons living with disability.
“In the current financial year, we have given Sh. 80 Million to 23 groups that had applied and qualified for the loans. We expected more people to take advantage of the interest free loans,” said Ms. Kwekwe.
She reminded them the funds targets the less fortunate persons in the society in a bid to boost them economically to enable them led a comfortable self-reliance life.
“We are here to ensure all Narok residents are informed and aware of various programmes the Jubilee administration has put in place to benefit them because we are not sure what will happen in the future governments,’’ said the PS.
In her speech, Ms. Kwekwe lauded the groups that had taken and repaid their loans saying they deserved to be given a higher amount to enable them continue expanding their businesses.
“Women top in the list of the applicants and most faithful groups in repaying their loans. They have set a good example to the youths and persons with special needs. It is encouraging when we see the beneficiaries testifying of their success stories,” she added.
She appealed to the beneficiaries to repay the loans promptly to enable more groups to access the funds and ensure sustainability of the programme that runs through the revolving funds.
Ms. Kwekwe reiterated the government is committed to ensure the marginalised population access opportunities that will enable them realise their potential.
Various groups present told of their success stories that they achieved after receiving the Uwezo funds loans.
Lida Group that consist of 10 artist praised Uwezo fund, saying it has enabled them build their talent in acting which has made them perform before the mighty in the society.
“We first received 50, 000 in the year 2014 which we used in hiring trainers and traveling in various places to act, this gave us courage to perform in various functions,” said Ms. Stella Kasura the group’s secretary.
After repaying our first loan, Ms. Kasura says they applied for another loan and got Sh. 100, 000 which has helped them move in various parts of the country performing.
Nevertheless, the residents raised concern with the slow pace of processing loans and lack of proper training of the beneficiaries that has led to many misusing the funds.
By Ann Salaton/Estherina Decemba
