State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed has dismissed reports suggesting that some groups in Nairobi were sidelined during the government’s recent empowerment programme.
Speaking through a statement, Hussein clarified that all the 1,100 registered groups from Nairobi that submitted proposals for funding and support received their allocations in full.
“A total of 1,100 registered groups from Nairobi submitted proposals for their empowerment programmes or projects, all approved, all funded, all received,” he said.
Each group consisted of 10 members and a chairperson, making a total of 11,000 beneficiaries. Hussein emphasized that the delivery process was orderly, with chairpersons entrusted to collect the items on behalf of their members.
His clarification followed allegations that some beneficiaries were left out during the distribution exercise held at State House, Nairobi. The empowerment forum brought together thousands of Nairobi residents who received various items, including motorcycles, to kickstart their approved projects.
Digital strategist Dennis Itumbi also weighed in, noting that the official procedure only allowed group leaders to pick up items for their respective teams. He revealed that the initiative had targeted 1,150 groups and hinted at a second phase of the programme.
“The empowerment targeted 1,150 groups, each consisting of 10 people. Only the group chairmen were allowed to collect the items. That was the official process,” he explained. “Nairobi Empowerment season two will follow!”
The clarification came just days after President William Ruto hosted thousands of residents at State House during the empowerment forum. Ruto used the occasion to encourage Kenyans to register with the Social Health Authority, assuring them that this would enable families to access hospital services without making out-of-pocket payments.
“Jiandikishe na uandikishe familia yako ili wakiwa wagonjwa wapate matibabu bila malipo yoyote,” he urged.
The empowerment forums, a flagship initiative of Ruto’s administration, are being held across the country to provide tools, skills, and resources to groups and individuals with viable projects. The Nairobi forum highlighted the administration’s commitment to grassroots empowerment, with beneficiaries expressing optimism about transforming their livelihoods.
