Women entrepreneurs in Makueni County are set to benefit from increased access to financing, mentorship and business development support through a women-focused initiative by the KCB Foundation, aimed at bridging the gender gap in entrepreneurship.
The programme targets women-led enterprises and offers unsecured loans of up to Sh10 million, mentorship opportunities, green financing and business advisory services to help businesses grow and become sustainable.
The initiative complements the Makueni Empowerment Fund, which supports youth, women, men and persons with disabilities through affordable financing and economic empowerment programmes.
Speaking during a dinner hosted by KCB Bank for women entrepreneurs at a hotel in Wote town, Makueni Deputy Governor (DG) Lucy Mulili lauded the bank’s continued partnership with the county government in supporting economic empowerment initiatives.
“We appreciate KCB for its continued partnership with Makueni County in empowering our people through initiatives that create opportunities, improve livelihoods and stimulate economic growth,” said Mulili while addressing the participants at the dinner event.
“Such partnerships are critical in empowering entrepreneurs, creating jobs and driving inclusive economic development, especially for women and young people,” she added.
Mulili noted that KCB has remained a key development partner in various initiatives that have positively impacted residents across the county, including the Mifugo ni Mali programme and the Tujiajiri initiative that equips young people with skills and opportunities for self-employment.
During the forum, KCB representative Justus Wambua encouraged entrepreneurs to engage their banks whenever they encounter financial challenges saying that KCB structures loan repayments according to the cash flow patterns of individual businesses.
“If you are in poultry farming, we understand that income comes when you sell your chickens. If you are running a school, fees come at specific times. We do not structure repayments without considering your business cycle,” said Wambua.
He assured customers that the bank prioritizes character and repayment ability over collateral and is willing to restructure loans for businesses facing difficulties.
“When you feel that your business is under stress and you are not able to make your monthly repayments, come to the bank. Talk to the credit team and we will see how we can assist you,” he noted.
Consequently, Wambua explained that the bank can extend repayment periods or offer temporary relief measures to help businesses recover and continue operating.
“Our major aim is for that loan to be paid in full as well as to ensure that your business goes to the next level,” he added
He further revealed that 900 students recently graduated from various technical training courses under a partnership between KCB Foundation and the County Government of Makueni.
“I am happy to report that we had a graduation last month where 900 students graduated in different technical courses. KCB Foundation contributed Sh30 million and the county government matched that support,” he said.
The forum brought together women-led and women-made enterprise customers, county officials and stakeholders to discuss access to financing, business growth opportunities and strategies for strengthening economic empowerment initiatives in the county.
The Deputy Governor was accompanied by the County Finance Executive Damaris Kavoi, Energy Chief Officer Eng. Naomi Nthambi and the County Public Service CEO Redempter Kavindu.
By Felister Ndinda
