Boda boda groups in Matungu Sub-County in Kakamega County have received Sh2.913 million to boost income-generating activities and improve the livelihoods of their members.
The money was raised during the Boda Boda Empowerment Programme held last Saturday at Eshiembekho Grounds in Mayoni Ward and will benefit various registered boda boda groups across the sub-county.
Speaking during the disbursement of the funds on Tuesday at his residence in a meeting with chairpersons of bodaboda groups from the area, Kakamega County Governor Fernandes Barasa said the initiative is aimed at empowering youth by enabling boda boda groups to invest in viable business ventures that will diversify their sources of income and reduce overreliance on motorcycle transport operations.
He noted that strengthening group enterprises would improve the economic well-being of members and enhance financial stability for their families.
The Governor thanked the organizing committee, boda boda leaders and all stakeholders for their commitment and cooperation in ensuring the success of the empowerment programme. He also commended political leaders for working together and prioritizing initiatives that promote youth empowerment and economic development, while appreciating leaders from different parts of the country who attended and supported the event.
Barasa urged the beneficiaries to manage the funds responsibly by investing in sustainable group businesses capable of generating long-term returns.
“Prudent use of the funds would enable these groups to expand their investments, create additional employment opportunities and improve members’ living standards,” he said.
Barasa reaffirmed the county government’s commitment to supporting youth and community-based groups through empowerment programmes that promote entrepreneurship, financial inclusion and sustainable livelihoods across Kakamega County.
The Governor said his administration will continue partnering with organized groups to implement initiatives that foster grassroots economic growth and create opportunities for young people.
The boda boda sector remains one of the largest employers of youth in Kakamega County, with many operators increasingly embracing group savings and investment schemes as a means of improving their economic resilience and securing a more stable future.
By Cypron Esolio
