Nairobi: Kenya Kwanza leaders have continued to rally support for the government, citing grassroots empowerment programmes as key drivers transforming rural economies and improving the fortunes of small-scale traders, persons living with disabilities (PWDs), women, and youth across Murang’a County. The leaders spoke during an Inua Jamii empowerment forum held in the Nyakihai area in Gaturi Ward, Kiharu Constituency, where several community groups and individuals benefited from government-backed support initiatives.
According to Kenya News Agency, the empowerment grants, issued mainly to registered social groups, ranged between Sh100,000 and Sh500,000, with women and youth emerging as the biggest beneficiaries. Murang’a County Woman Representative Betty Maina said the government remains focused on delivering results through development-oriented leadership, noting that empowerment at the grassroots is critical to ensuring rural economies do not stagnate. She emphasized the importance of providing development in essential sectors such as water, health facilities, and roads.
Maina highlighted the significant impact that modest financial support can have on small-scale traders, mentioning that even a small amount like Sh1,000 could help traders restock and transform their businesses. She urged small-scale traders, specifically hawkers, to form and register groups to access government funds collectively. Additionally, she called on the opposition to engage in constructive oversight and avoid political distractions.
During the forum, seven social groups received non-refundable NGAAF funds, and community members, especially those living with disabilities, were supported with assistive aids. Beneficiaries expressed their gratitude, with John Mwangi from the Kamwaga Mwangaza Boda Boda Group noting that the funds would help improve operations and create employment opportunities for young people. The group plans to use part of the money for table banking to provide low-interest loans to members.
Nominated MCA Gladys Wambui stated that aligning with the government allows communities to attract essential development resources. Gaturi Ward MCA Gathee Wa Njeri appealed for national intervention to address water shortages, describing the region as severely affected by water scarcity. Residents echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that a reliable water supply would enhance agricultural productivity and boost household incomes. Peter Mwangi, a local resident, lamented the impact of water scarcity on farming, which has limited agricultural productivity for years.
