Leaders allied to the Kenya Kwanza administration have come out strongly in defense of the ongoing empowerment forums across the country, arguing that the initiative is key to realizing the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, speaking at Kimorori Grounds in Kenol, Murang’a County, urged critics to stop hiding behind social media and instead engage directly with the beneficiaries on the ground. “If someone is against the empowerment programme, let them come to Maragua and say it. Let them not just post it on social media,” he said.
The forums, which have been held in various counties, are designed to provide capital support for community groups, especially women and youth, to boost their entrepreneurial ventures. According to Kindiki, the programme is already changing lives at the grassroots and enjoys strong support among its beneficiaries.
His comments follow criticism from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, now leader of the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), who dismissed the forums as public relations stunts. Speaking from Boston, USA, Gachagua questioned the use of public funds for what he termed as events with little tangible development outcomes.
In response, Kindiki insisted the forums are far from ceremonial, adding that they offer tangible support to local communities through revolving funds and business capital. He further appealed to Mt. Kenya leaders to embrace mature, issue-based politics and reject any form of violence. “Even when Matiba competed with Kibaki in 1992, they competed on ideas. We didn’t destroy each other’s property,” he said.
Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wah supported the initiative, noting that many women are now expanding their businesses and boda boda operators acquiring motorcycles through the empowerment programme. “This is what we promised in the Bottom-Up agenda,” he stated.
Murang’a Woman Representative Betty Maina highlighted the funding gap, saying her office only receives Sh13 million annually from NGAAF, far less than what is needed to support all community groups. “This money is meant to uplift lives, not be divided for consumption,” she emphasized.
The Kenya Kwanza leaders vowed to continue the forums, saying they are critical to inclusive economic growth.
