Launch of School Week of Citizenship EducationPresident William Ruto emphasized the importance of a saving culture among Kenyans during the first anniversary celebrations of the Hustler Fund at Green Park, Nairobi
Fada N’Gourma, Eastern Region – Siaka Ouattara, Secretary General of the Eastern region, inaugurated the eighth edition of the School Week of Citizenship Education (SeSECi) 2023 on November 27 at Yendabri regional vocational high school in Fada N’Gourma.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the event occurs amidst rising concerns over drug offenses and school violence. From 2018 to 2022, 789 students were arrested for drug-related offenses. The event also highlighted the increasing frequency of violence in schools, with 1,074 cases reported in primary schools and 5,168 cases in post-primary and secondary schools between 2019 and 2021.
Despite government efforts, schools continue to face challenges such as social unrest and boycotts of educational activities. Ouattara emphasized the crucial role of families in child education and the need for parental and supervisory collaboration to address these societal issues. SeSECi 2023, running from November 27 to December 1, focuses on promoting citizenship and engagement in schools, particularly in the context of the current security and humanitarian crisis.
Nairobi, Kenya – The event, attended by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and several senior government officials, highlighted the government’s efforts to improve the livelihoods of its citizens through this initiative.
According to Kenya News Agency, the Hustler Fund project has been a significant step in providing financial assistance to Kenyans. Starting with an initial allocation of Sh12 billion, the fund is set to reach Sh50 billion, offering loans for business at lower interest rates. The president pointed out that the fund is self-sustaining due to the consistent repayment of loans by borrowers.
He announced that those saving with the Hustler Fund would receive an interest rate of 12 per cent, payable annually on December 31st, starting from 2023. President Ruto highlighted the fund’s impact, noting that over seven million people previously restricted by the Credit Rating Bureau have now accessed loans and are successfully running their businesses.
Further, Ruto declared that groups such as boda boda riders and mama mboga, comprising 30 to 50 members, can now borrow between Sh200,000 to Sh1 million after undergoing vetting. This increase in borrowing limits responds to the growing demand from Kenyans wishing to borrow more.
In his address, the president also touched upon the government’s housing project, citing its role in creating jobs across various sectors, including engineering, construction, and transportation. He stressed the government’s commitment to expanding opportunities for online digital jobs and the export of labor, aiming to enhance self-reliance among Kenyans.
President Ruto also discussed the government’s broader economic strategies, including plans to start repaying national debts by December this year. He expressed confidence in the interventions made to address the cost of living, including reducing the price of fertilizer, and emphasized the government’s focus on strengthening food security.