Kericho Chamber of Commerce Launches Loan Program for Youths and Women

KERICHO – In a significant move to empower the youth and women of Kericho County, the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), Kericho Branch, has announced a comprehensive support program aimed at facilitating access to low-interest loans for starting or enhancing small-scale businesses.

According to Kenya News Agency, Chairman of the KNCCI Kericho Branch, the initiative is designed to provide financial assistance as well as training and orientation on securing loans for business ventures.

The initiative, known as the Jiinue Programme, targets the youth and women demographic within the county, offering loans at an appealing interest rate of 0.8 percent, with amounts ranging from Sh 3,000 to Sh 200,000. Mr. Bett emphasized the commitment of the KNCCI to fostering a supportive business environment for the beneficiaries of these loans. He urged potential applicants, including youths, women, and traders from the area, to partake in the application process, which includes a thorough vetting procedure prior to the loan dispersal.

Further detailing the operational aspects of the program, Mr. Bett highlighted the KNCCI’s efforts in maintaining a database to screen for applicants with poor repayment histories, ensuring the sustainability of the loan facility. He shared these insights while speaking at a training session organized for a group of young individuals from six sub-counties of Kericho – Ainamoi, Belgut, Londiani, Kipkelion, Soin/Sigowet, and Bureti. The session, held at a local hotel in Kericho, was part of a series of capacity-building trainings on entrepreneurship facilitated by Ketepa Sacco, ABSA Bank, and other partners.

By launching this initiative, the KNCCI Kericho Branch aims to not only provide financial assistance but also to cultivate entrepreneurial skills among the county’s youth and women, thereby contributing to the overall economic growth and development of the region.