By G, KNA
Kiambu County Woman Representative Ann Wamuratha, through the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF) on Thursday launched an ambitious program to improve residents’ livelihoods in Cianda ward in Kiambaa Constituency.
The programme targets women, youth, persons with disabilities and organised community groups as part of government efforts to promote inclusive economic development.
Speaking during the event, Wamuratha said the initiative aimed to support income-generating activities at the grassroots by providing financial assistance and equipment to beneficiaries.
“NGAAF focuses on supporting small businesses and organised groups with tools that enhance income generation and self-reliance,” she said.
Several groups received empowerment cheques, including Cekingu Investments Self Help Group, Podlins Fashion Design and Tailoring Group, and the Social Workers Kiambaa Sub-County Group. Two welfare associations, Kawaida Mama Mboga Welfare Group and Kawaida Men Residents Welfare Association, received tents and chairs to support community activities.
Individual beneficiaries also received livelihood equipment, including car washing machines, hair dryers, shaving machines, UV sterilisation machines, chips fryers, motorbike and market umbrellas, helmets for boda boda riders, white canes for persons with visual impairment and blankets for elderly residents.
Salon operator Evelyn Njuguna, a beneficiary of the programme, said the equipment received would improve service delivery at her business.
“The hair dryer and UV sterilisation machine will help me improve hygiene and serve my clients more efficiently,” she said.
Barber Richard Gakinya, who received a shaving machine, said the support would enhance productivity.
“The machine will enable me to work faster and serve more customers,” Gakinya said.
The National Government Affirmative Action Fund supports vulnerable groups through provision of grants, equipment and capacity building to enhance economic empowerment.