SENSITIZATION AND TRAINING OF TRAINERS IN KAKAMEGA COUNTY

 The Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and MSMEs Development, FCPA Wycliffe A. Oparanya, flagged off the Fund's National Sensitization and ToTs at Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST), Kakamega County. The event, which targeted National Government Administration Officers (NGAO), grassroots groups leadership, and residents, aimed to raise awareness about opportunities available through the Fund and other affirmative action programs designed to promote economic empowerment, through the Ministry of Cooperatives and micro, small, and medium enterprises development (MSMEs). Speaking at the event, CS Oparanya emphasized the government's commitment to deepening financial inclusion and empowering citizens economically through accessible and affordable credit for all, no collateral required, fast and convenient disbursement of loans and credit scoring/rating, which will build borrowers' credit history for mainstream financial institutions. He further reassured the public that the Fund is sustainable beyond politics. "The Hustler Fund is not just about loans; it is about transforming lives, growing businesses, and building sustainable livelihoods," Cs Oparanya said—the Ag. CEO Elizabeth N. Nkukuu, CFA, in her remarks stressed the need to borrow and repay on time, the advantage of the savings component with security, and a single interest rate for the loans with progressive limits. Additionally, representatives from the Kenya Industrial Estates (KIE) and the Micro and Small Enterprises Authority (MSEA) sensitized participants on their respective mandates and how their programs contribute to MSME growth and expanding access to financial services. The sensitization forum featured interactive sessions where participants received guidance on accessing the fund's products and enhancing their financial literacy. In attendance were County Commissioner Kakamega County Michael Weru, Board Members Jenifer Mwangangi and Symon Mburia, VC Prof Solomon Shibairo, Hon Titus Khamala MP Lurambi, Bernard Shinali, MP Ikolomani, MCAs, NGAOs, and local leaders.