EMBU – Women in Kirimari Ward, Embu County, are being encouraged to join or form self-help groups to access a new Sh10-million revolving fund initiated by the County Government. This move aims to empower women economically by providing them with access to vital financial resources.

According to Kenya News Agency, Kirimari Ward MCA Ibrahim Swaleh emphasized the importance of these groups during a meeting with over 100 women’s groups from the area. He advised that the most effective way for women to benefit from this scheme, as well as other government funds, is through participation in registered self-help groups. Swaleh urged the groups to ensure their registration status is current, qualifying them for the upcoming funding.

Swaleh expressed the County Government’s commitment to not only investing in development projects but also ensuring that women benefit economically. He highlighted the role of these groups in reducing economic and social exclusion of women in the labor force.

Jane Waroga, the County Executive Committee (CEC) member for Youth, Gender, Sports, Culture, and Social Services, reported that the county is in the final stages of operationalizing the revolving fund. This fund is designed to provide financial support to women’s groups, helping them sustain and grow their businesses.

Waroga urged all registered groups to update their records to be eligible for the fund, which is set to be rolled out next year. She emphasized the need for proper registration and record-keeping, stating, “We do not want to deal with briefcase groups.”

Additionally, Waroga announced that her department will offer training to women’s groups in various fields, including table banking, investment, savings, and corporate management. This training is part of the county’s broader effort to support and empower women economically through structured programs and funds.