At least Sh36 million meant for youths, women and persons with disability is lying idle in Kisumu County.
Speaking during a youth engagement forum at Mama Grace Onyango Social Center in Kisumu, Government Spokesman Cyrus Oguna said the funds could be utilized to support youth initiatives.
The money under the Uwezo Fund is part of the government’s initiative through the State Department for Youth to ensure startup funds for youth, women and persons with disability.
At least Sh185 million have so far been loaned to over 2, 000 groups within Kisumu, with each group getting between Sh50, 000 and Sh1 million, interest free.
Oguna said: “There is money available for young people to use to start their businesses and projects, but many young people are ignorant of government programs.”
Nicholas Ochieng, a member of a local CBO in Kisumu testified to being a beneficiary of the fund, and also advised borrowers to pay back the loans.
“When you pay back the loan, it allows other groups to benefit as well,” he said.