Changamwe Member of Parliament (MP) Omar Mwinyi has challenged small-scale entrepreneurs to embrace the culture of saving, join retirement benefits and health schemes.
Over 1,000 women and youth gathered at Emirates Hall for a financial literacy and empowerment forum led by the legislator, in collaboration with Equity Bank.
The event was aimed at promoting a savings culture and financial discipline among women and youth in Changamwe, with a focus on improving small-scale businesses through training and access to tailored financial services.
“We are pleased to host this forum that brings together women and youth to explore ways to strengthen their businesses,” said MP Mwinyi.
“Equity Bank, together with various partners, has come on board to offer practical training in areas such as advertising and marketing, stock management, savings, responsible borrowing, and insurance,” he added.
The Legislator also highlighted development milestones in Changamwe under the Broad-Based Government.
“We made three requests to the President, and they have all been fulfilled. The Technical University of Mombasa will begin training medical professionals this year,” stated Mwinyi.
“The Magongo stadium is nearing completion, and 20 acres have been allocated in Saratoga for an affordable housing project that includes a hospital, school, library, and police station.”
He further thanked President William Ruto for the support and reaffirmed Changamwe’s commitment to government development initiatives.
Equity Bank Coast Region, Head of Credit, emphasised the bank’s commitment to economic empowerment Gibson planning particularly for marginalized groups.
“Today, we are here with our Changamwe branch team to train our women and youth on business development, budgeting, insurance, and access to suitable financial products,” said Kaloki.
“Our programs, including Fanikisha, are specifically designed to empower women and youth while promoting responsible borrowing and loan repayment.”
The women and youth welcomed the initiative, noting its positive impact on their entrepreneurial activities.
“I have learned a lot today, especially on saving and investing,” said Mariam Mwabili, a food vendor from Changamwe. “We thank Equity Bank and request that such forums continue.”
Her sentiments were echoed by Mary Adhiambo, a local businesswoman, who highlighted the need for regular training sessions.
“Many of us are hesitant to take loans because our businesses are struggling. These forums give us the confidence and knowledge we need,” she said, also acknowledging the support of Mombasa County Woman Representative Hon. ZamZam Mohamed.
Mombasa Women Representative, ZamZam Mohamed praised the partnership between the MP’s office, Equity Bank, and her office, noting that financial literacy was key to addressing socio-economic challenges facing the youth and women in the country.
“This event is not only about financial empowerment but also about mental well-being,” she said. “We are seeing a rise in femicide cases, and women must be supported holistically.”
She further revealed that her office, through the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF), has disbursed Sh15 million to Changamwe while promising that similar initiatives across other sub counties were underway.
By Sitati Reagan
