Youth and Women Groups as well as Boda Boda riders in Kaiti Constituency have benefited from Sh2.6 million through a government empowerment initiative aimed at assisting them in starting to generate income to combat poverty.
Youth and women groups in Ilima Ward received Sh1.1M, while another Sh1.5 million was given to Boda Boda riders to invest wisely in an effort to uplift their living standards.
Speaking on Monday at Kyambeke Market, the Principal Secretary (PS) for the State Department for Aviation, Teresia Mbaika, warned the various groups against misappropriating the monies and instead urged them to invest wisely and combat the poverty afflicting many of them.
“This money is not for buying T-shirts. Let every member do something beneficial with the funds so that the empowerment is felt; hence, uplift your living standards,” said Mbaika during the occasion at Kyambeke market, where several groups had gathered to receive the money.
Consequently, she encouraged the residents to take advantage of the different government initiatives meant to empower them financially to improve their livelihoods.
Furthermore, she observed that Konza Technopolis City was in the region, saying there was potential for youth to get employment, hence challenging them to be strategic.
“Soon, the Climate Work Programme will be rolled out in villages and urban centres. This will be another opportunity for the youth to make money to combat poverty afflicting many. Be ready to tap into every opportunity,” Mbaika further advised.
Speaking at the same event, Mwala Member of Parliament (MP) Vincent Musyoka handed Sh 1.5 million to boda boda riders on behalf of President William Ruto and encouraged them to invest wisely in either electric motorcycles or car wash businesses to generate income.
“There are those who may intend to invest in boda bodas; please consider electric bikes supported by the government. They are cheaper than fuel bikes, which often come with high-interest loans,” said Musyoka.
Musyoka, who is also the UDA Organising Secretary, seized the opportunity to defend President Ruto’s administration and dismissed the opposition, stating, “They criticise, but they do not give any solutions. Some had the opportunity to serve but did nothing. Let them show what achievements they have.”
Other leaders present included Machakos Town MP Caleb Mule; his counterparts for Kibwezi West, Kitui South and Masinga Mwengi Mutuse, Rachael Kaki and Joshua Mwalyo; and Nominated Senator Tabitha Mutinda.
By Patrick Nyakundi
