Empowering Communities: Kilifi South Women and Youth Find Economic Independence
In Kilifi South Constituency, a transformative initiative is changing lives, empowering women and youth to achieve economic independence and strengthen their communities. The Kilifi South Youth and Women Empowerment Program, championed by local leaders and supported by organizations like NALSA Kenya and Proudly Kenya, has provided vital resources and training to over 25 women and youth groups across the region.
At the heart of the program is a clear vision to bridge the economic gaps that many women and youth face by providing resources, skills, and opportunities for sustainable livelihoods. Mrs. Mirriam Kiti, NALSA Kenya representative, explained her motivation for leading this initiative:
“I saw the need among women and the various issues they go through. I felt the need to fill up the gap through this project and give them products.”
Her passion to uplift women and youth inspired the program’s focus on income-generating activities, equipping participants with essential tools to improve their businesses and daily lives.
During a recent event, a range of equipment and resources were distributed to empower these groups. Items included refrigerators for preserving perishable goods like fish and juices, water tanks to alleviate water scarcity, and barbershop kits to support youth in starting and growing their barbering businesses. Other tools included blow-dry machines for salon owners, car-washing machines, and essential equipment like chairs, tables, and tents to enable various entrepreneurial ventures. These tools are not just items; they are opportunities for families and communities to thrive.
The initiative’s success is already being felt across Kilifi South. Beneficiaries shared their stories of transformation and hope. Andrew Beja, a barber at Prince Complex in Kaloleni, expressed how the barbershop kits will make a difference:
“The shaving kits will help us create opportunities for the youth who don’t have jobs and also teach others how to cut hair, helping them earn a living.”
Similarly, Furaha Mtana, Chair of Chasimba Young Mothers, highlighted the benefits of the refrigerators:
“We can now preserve our fish and juices without wastage. This will boost our businesses and income, and we are very grateful.”
Mbuche Chilango, Chair of Mwarema Women Group, shared how the sufurias will generate income for their group:
“With these sufurias, we can hire them out during weddings and other events. The money we earn will help us support our children’s education and improve our livelihoods.”
While the program has brought significant progress, the community recognizes the need for continued growth. Beneficiaries emphasized the importance of training in financial management and fund utilization to ensure long-term success and sustainability of their ventures.
Mrs. Mirriam Kiti remains optimistic about the program’s future, with plans to expand its reach by seeking additional donors and leveraging her own resources where possible. She expressed gratitude to Proudly Kenya and NALSA Kenya for their support, saying:
“We are very grateful. This kind of assistance has made a big impact, and we hope to see even more support in the future for other women and youth groups in need.”
The Kilifi South Youth and Women Empowerment Program is more than just an initiative—it’s a movement towards self-reliance, resilience, and community transformation. By equipping women and youth with the tools they need to succeed, the program is paving the way for a brighter, more empowered future.
As these women and youth continue to uplift themselves and their families, they are setting an example of how targeted support, skills, and resources can drive sustainable development and create lasting change.