Defence CS Soipan Tuya has challenged women in Kericho County to turn empowerment funds into tangible wealth by investing strategically in sustainable enterprises and securing a stake in the government’s Affordable Housing Programme, a move she said would anchor families in stability and long-term economic security.
Speaking at the Kericho County Women Empowerment event held at the Kericho Teachers Training College grounds, Tuya emphasized that the financial support extended to beneficiaries should not be viewed as a handout but as strategic growth capital deliberately aligned with the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
The CS stressed that prudent investment, enterprise discipline, and collective accountability would be critical in translating the funds into sustainable livelihoods and expanded economic opportunity for grassroots women.
“Treat the funds you are receiving as strategic business capital and deploy them prudently to strengthen your enterprises. Invest in expanding your working capital, improving productivity and positioning your businesses for sustainable growth.
When women-led enterprises thrive, they generate jobs, expand household incomes and contribute directly to the country’s economic stability and growth,” she advised, linking entrepreneurship directly to broader economic impact.
The CS lauded women traders operating in Kericho markets, describing them as key drivers of the county’s grassroots economy.
Tuya reinforced that empowerment initiatives must translate into expanded market participation, improved incomes, and long-term financial independence, adding that complementary government interventions under BETA including enhanced market infrastructure, the Hustler Fund, and ongoing progress in Universal Health Coverage, provide a solid foundation for women to leverage these opportunities.
According to Tuya, 324 housing units are nearing completion in Kericho, with plans underway to roll out an additional 3,000 units, bringing the projected total to 3,324.
She urged women entrepreneurs to view the affordable housing programme, not merely as shelter, but as a strategic financial asset capable of generating wealth, fostering economic stability and empowering women as active participants in the county’s growing property market.
“Commit yourselves wholeheartedly to your businesses and diligently prepare for the day you will own these homes. Access to decent housing strengthens families, fosters stability, and lays a firm foundation for the future of your children,” she added.
The forum convened more than 130 registered women’s groups drawn from across the county, representing a combined membership of over 4,000 beneficiaries.
High-profile attendees included Senate Majority Leader and Kericho Senator Aaron Cheruiyot, Kericho Governor Erick Mutai, Ainamoi MP Benjamin Langat, Belgut MP Nelson Koech, and other invited leaders and stakeholders, reflecting the significance of the county’s commitment to women’s economic empowerment.
Tuya further underscored that cohesive organization and strategic collaboration among women’s groups form a formidable foundation for sustainable economic advancement.
“Women are organized, united and highly resourceful. When presented with a viable idea, they not only adopt it but also refine it, mobilize resources, and transform it into tangible impact. This is why empowering women’s groups consistently delivers measurable results,” she stated, connecting grassroots action to national development objectives.
Tuya further linked women’s enterprise growth and home ownership directly to the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda, urging the beneficiaries to harness the empowerment funds to expand their businesses, access affordable housing, and invest in their communities.
“Empowered women transform families, communities, and the economy. By integrating entrepreneurship with strategic asset ownership, you are not only securing your future but also actively contributing to the vision of a prosperous Kenya.
Let this initiative be a blueprint for sustainable wealth creation and intergenerational stability,” she added, leaving a compelling call to action for Kericho’s women.
By Gilbert Mutai
