Kilifi County has disbursed Sh25 million in interest-free loans to 105 groups under the Wezesha Fund, targeting women, youth, and persons living with disabilities (PWDs).
Speaking during the cheque distribution exercise in Kilifi town, Governor Gideon Mung’aro said the initiative is designed to spur entrepreneurship and transform the local economy.
“My goal is to leave a legacy of economic empowerment to my people. Right now, we have women groups who can process their own maize and wheat flour and soon they will be competing with known brands,” said Mung’aro.
The Governor urged beneficiaries to invest wisely and make timely repayments to ensure more groups access the revolving fund. He also revealed that the county government, in partnership with various organizations, will provide technical and financial management training to help the groups succeed.
County Executive Committee Member for Trade, Tourism and Culture, Raymond Ngala, said the county has consistently supported small and medium enterprises (SMEs). He noted that last year alone, Sh133 million was disbursed, with his office now rolling out monthly allocations.
“We encourage residents to take advantage of these loans to grow their businesses and create wealth for the people of Kilifi,” Ngala stated.
Chief Officer for Trade, Lynn Farrah, explained that the Wezesha Fund, formerly known as the Mbegu Fund, was restructured by the County Assembly to improve accessibility. She said repayment has been encouraging, standing at 90 percent, with many groups now on their third loan cycle.
“We have beneficiaries who have completed repayments under both the Mbegu and Wezesha Funds and qualified for more support. Groups are engaging in diverse activities, including table banking, poultry farming, and slaughterhouse businesses,” Farrah said.
Beneficiaries praised the initiative, citing tangible economic improvements. Patrick Ngonyo, a butcher from Jilore ward in Malindi, said a Sh200,000 loan enabled him to establish a slaughterhouse.
“I am now a wholesaler of meat, supplying 15 butcheries in Malindi. I have already cleared my first loan and qualified for a new one,” Ngonyo said.
Similarly, Ms. Maureen Pendo from Ganze Sub-County, whose 20-member women’s group engages in poultry farming and table banking, lauded the programme.
“The fund has really changed our economic lives. We thank the county government of Kilifi for implementing policies that are beneficial to us,” she said.
Governor Mung’aro affirmed that the county government will continue supporting SMEs through the Wezesha Fund as part of its broader agenda to promote sustainable economic empowerment.
By Stephen Mrira
