(KAKAMEGA, KENYA) – Kakamega County has commenced the disbursement of KES60 million ($416,000 / £327,000 / €387,000) in social protection grants targeting vulnerable groups across the county to boost grassroots socio economic development.
The six week exercise, which was graced by Kakamega County Governor Fernandes Barasa on Monday in Navakholo Sub County, targets 1,200 self help groups comprising women, youth, widows, and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Kakamega County.
Navakholo Sub County received KES5 million ($34,600 / £27,300 / €32,300), with each of its wards allocated KES1 million ($6,920 / £5,450 / €6,450) to support 100 groups, with each group receiving KES50,000 ($346 / £273 / €323).
The beneficiaries in Navakholo comprise 45 women’s groups, 20 youth groups, 25 widows’ groups, and 10 groups of persons with disabilities.
Countywide, the programme targets 540 women’s groups, 240 youth groups, 300 widows’ groups, and 120 groups of persons with disabilities.
Other sub counties will receive varying allocations, with Malava getting the highest amount at KES7 million ($48,500 / £38,200 / €45,200), followed by Lurambi, Lugari, and Shinyalu sub counties at KES6 million ($41,600 / £32,700 / €38,700) each.
Navakholo, Butere, Matungu, and Likuyani will each receive KES5 million ($34,600 / £27,300 / €32,300), while Khwisero, Ikolomani, and Mumias West will receive KES4 million ($27,700 / £21,800 / €25,800) each. Mumias East has been allocated KES3 million ($20,800 / £16,400 / €19,400).
The initiative is aimed at cushioning vulnerable groups while promoting socio economic development at the grassroots through support for community based income generating activities.
The beneficiaries are expected to use the grants to expand their enterprises and improve their sources of income, thereby contributing to improved livelihoods among vulnerable households across the county.