Women and youth groups across Kenya have borrowed more than Sh5 billion from the Uwezo Fund, helping to strengthen grassroots economies and support income-generating activities.
According to Uwezo Fund chairperson Anne Njuguna, the initiative launched by the government in 2013 has been instrumental in transforming lives at the community level. Speaking at Igikiro grounds in Maragua Constituency during the issuance of Sh7.2 million in cheques, Njuguna highlighted that most groups benefiting from the fund are thriving, with a strong uptake nationwide.
The Uwezo Fund provides interest-free loans, allowing beneficiaries a six-month grace period before repayment begins. New groups typically receive Sh50,000, which is doubled upon successful repayment.
“Groups are doing very well, and we’ve seen an improvement in repayments after sensitisation,” said Njuguna, adding that Maragua residents have achieved an 81 percent repayment rate. However, she noted that some regions, particularly in the Northeastern, have lagged behind, though gradual improvement has been recorded.
Maragua MP Mary Waithera lauded the initiative, noting that many beneficiaries are women engaged in poultry, pig, fish, and cattle farming, as well as table banking. She said collaboration with local administrators has helped improve repayment discipline among groups that had previously defaulted.
Last year, Sh5.4 million was also disbursed to local groups, complementing other empowerment initiatives such as the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF).
Beneficiaries like Karia-ini-Thayu Self Help Group and Pamoja Kayole Group shared their success stories, citing improved financial stability, easier access to loans, and the ability to pay school fees and expand small businesses.
“This fund has changed our lives,” said Esther Mwihoko of Pamoja Kayole Group. “We can now invest, educate our children, and grow together as a community.”
The Uwezo Fund continues to empower vulnerable groups across Kenya, proving to be a vital tool for economic inclusion and sustainable development.
