Wajir, Kenya| In a groundbreaking move to uplift women entrepreneurs and strengthen grassroots economies, Wajir County Woman Representative Fatuma Abdi Jehow has officially launched a Sh10 million Women Empowerment Fund.
The initiative is aimed at transforming the lives of 700 beneficiaries across all six constituencies of Wajir.
The initiative, described by Jehow as a “seed for dignity, independence, and prosperity,” is tailored to benefit women in informal sectors — particularly mama mbogas (fresh vegetable produce vendors), milk vendors, and small-scale traders — who form the bedrock of Wajir’s local economy.
The fund will be distributed among vetted cooperatives and women’s groups in Wajir East, Wajir North, Wajir South, Eldas, Tarbaj, and Wajir West constituencies.
“This is not just financial aid. It is an investment in dreams, a catalyst for sustainable change, and a commitment to community-driven development,” Jehow declared during the fund’s launch.
“Our women have long carried the burden of feeding, educating, and sustaining families. Today, we begin a new chapter — one where their efforts are amplified, dignified, and supported.”
Jehow emphasized that her office will closely monitor the progress of all beneficiary groups, offering guidance, mentorship, and periodic assessments to ensure the sustainability and impact of the initiative.
To motivate excellence and foster a culture of performance, she pledged to recognize and reward the top three performing groups in the program.
“I eagerly anticipate hearing the inspiring stories of transformation that will emerge from this initiative. In Sha Allah, our women will rise, not just for themselves, but for entire communities,” Jehow noted, with evident passion.
The beneficiaries were identified through a transparent and rigorous vetting process, which Jehow described as essential to ensure fairness and credibility.
This commitment to integrity has bolstered confidence in the initiative, drawing praise from both local leaders and grassroots organizations.
Jehow also used the opportunity to commend President William Ruto for his unwavering support and commitment to uplifting marginalized communities.
“My deepest gratitude goes to His Excellency President William Ruto,” she said. “His visionary leadership and dedication to inclusive development have made this fund a reality. His efforts are not only commendable — they are transformative.”
Recalling her engagement with the President, Jehow remarked, “Ushaada nin aad ka qaadi kartaa loo dhiibtaa” — a Somali proverb loosely translating to ‘A burden is entrusted to someone capable of carrying it.’
She explained that during a recent meeting with President Ruto, she presented the urgent need to empower the hardworking women of Wajir. In response, the President honored his promise, releasing the Sh10 million fund.
“There is no greater fulfillment than witnessing the joy and hope on the faces of our mothers as they receive this support,” Jehow said. “As someone who understands the strength and resilience of our women, I am honored to walk with them on this journey of empowerment.”
The launch of the Women Empowerment Fund marks a significant step in Jehow’s broader vision to position Wajir’s women at the center of the county’s socio-economic development.
Her leadership, grounded in empathy and strategic advocacy, continues to win her accolades both locally and nationally.
With the rollout of the fund, anticipation is high for the ripple effects it is expected to generate — from improved household incomes to strengthened community enterprises and enhanced economic resilience across Wajir County.
For the women of Wajir, this initiative is more than just a financial boost — it is a lifeline of hope, dignity, and self-reliance.
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