Kilifi: 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 highlighted that the initiative is designed to spur entrepreneurship and transform the local economy.
According to Kenya News Agency, Governor Mung'aro emphasized his goal to leave a legacy of economic empowerment for the people of Kilifi. The governor noted that women groups are now able to process their own maize and wheat flour, setting the stage for competition with established brands. He also encouraged beneficiaries to invest wisely and make timely repayments to ensure more groups can access the revolving fund. Mung'aro 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, stated that the county has consistently supported small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Last year, Sh133 million was disbursed, and his office is now rolling out monthly allocations. Ngala encouraged residents to take advantage of these loans to grow their businesses and create wealth for the people of Kilifi.
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. Farrah noted that repayment rates have been encouraging, standing at 90 percent, with many groups now on their third loan cycle. She highlighted the diverse activities groups are engaging in, including table banking, poultry farming, and slaughterhouse businesses.
Beneficiaries of the initiative have praised its tangible economic benefits. Patrick Ngonyo, a butcher from Jilore ward in Malindi, expressed gratitude for a Sh200,000 loan that enabled him to establish a slaughterhouse. Ngonyo is now a wholesaler of meat, supplying 15 butcheries in Malindi, and has already cleared his first loan, qualifying for a new one. Similarly, Ms. Maureen Pendo from Ganze Sub-County lauded the programme, noting significant economic improvements for her 20-member women's group engaged in poultry farming and table banking.
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.
