The government has announced a new enterprise support programme targeting nearly 600 youth groups in Homa Bay County as part of efforts to promote small business development and youth employment.
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo said the programme would provide practical tools, technical training and enterprise support to youth groups across the county.
Speaking during a meeting with youth leaders representing the groups, Omollo said each group would be required to consult its members before submitting proposals for support.
“You are here on behalf of your members, not on your own. Consult them, agree on the enterprise that best serves the group and report back,” he said.
According to the PS, the programme will operate under clear funding guidelines, including a maximum allocation for each group, with proposals subjected to evaluation before equipment or other resources are distributed.
“We do not have unlimited time or resources. We must therefore work within clear guidelines and ensure that the available support benefits as many genuine groups as possible,” Omollo said.
He added that verification teams would visit communities where necessary to confirm the existence and needs of the identified groups before support is approved.
The initiative will focus on technical education, practical skills training and support for small-scale businesses, with the aim of helping young people establish sustainable livelihoods.
“We want to give our young people a practical starting point. They should use this support to build businesses, create employment and become economically independent,” he said.
The programme is expected to benefit youth-led enterprises in areas such as agribusiness, manufacturing, services and other income-generating activities identified by the groups.
Omollo said the government intends to ensure that resources are distributed transparently and reach verified beneficiaries.
“This initiative is for every young person in Homa Bay. Political differences must never divide our youth or prevent them from benefiting from development opportunities,” he said.
The meeting also discussed youth participation in local development initiatives and the role of community organisations in supporting enterprise growth.
Those present included Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, Kasipul MP Boyd Were, Homa Bay Woman Representative Joyce Bensuda, Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma and Nyanza Regional Commissioner Onesmus Kyatha.
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