Homa Bay:Women and youth groups in Homa Bay County have received a significant boost from the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF), which has provided equipment worth Sh9.3 million to over 225 groups this year. An additional Sh10 million was allocated in the previous financial year.
According to Kenya News Agency, the donated equipment includes sewing machines, salon equipment, carwash machines, mechanic toolboxes, and water tanks. Homa Bay Woman Representative Joyce Bensouda Osogo highlighted these efforts during the Homa Bay County Juakali artisan day at Raila Odinga Stadium, emphasizing the importance of skills development and market opportunities for small and medium enterprises.
Dr. Osogo also stated that her office has invested over 20 million shillings in sports development through the ‘Bensouda Super Cup 2026.’ Furthermore, her office has supported education by disbursing Sh44.1 million in bursaries to over 6,900 bright, needy learners across the county.
To improve the livelihoods of small traders, Dr. Osogo’s office has constructed modern markets in Ramba, Kabondo West Ward, and Ratanga in Ndhiwa constituency, with the Oriang market in Karachuonyo constituency still under construction. Additional support has been provided to over 10,000 traders with worktops, giant umbrellas, and other equipment to enhance market working conditions.
In efforts to improve access to clean water, boreholes have been drilled in Kanyadhiang and Kanyaluo in Homa Bay town constituency, and over 200 water tanks have been distributed to schools, churches, and markets across the county.
Cooperatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya, present at the event, reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through financial incentives. He mentioned various funds available for entrepreneurs and emphasized the importance of technology in business transactions. He also spoke about the proposed Dangote Oil refinery project in Lamu, projecting the creation of 60,000 jobs during construction.
Oparanya urged Kenyans to maintain peace during the memorial of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and praised Joyce Osogo for her efforts in resource mobilization for MSMEs. The event was attended by Patricia Odeng, representing the Principal Secretary of the State Department for Broadcasting and Telecommunications.
