Kwale County Governor Fatuma Achani has dismissed criticism that her development agenda does not align with the needs of residents, defending her administration's economic empowerment programs aimed at alleviating poverty. Achani stated that her administration remains committed to grassroots economic transformation. The governor made these remarks while presiding over an empowerment program for 32 Savings and Internal Lending Communities (SILC) and self-help groups in Lutsangani Village, Kinango Sub-County.

The Kwale County Government has supported over 6,000 Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) and SILC groups across the county. The administration has institutionalized the savings and lending model as a key strategy for poverty reduction and grassroots economic transformation, targeting women, youth, and persons with disabilities. This initiative has been a cornerstone of Achani's development agenda since taking office.

Governor Achani also urged residents to support President William Ruto's re-election bid, citing development projects undertaken by the National Government in the region. She highlighted several projects, including the Kwale-Kinango road, Shimoni port, Mwachande bridge, National mariculture training center, and empowerment programs. Achani believes these projects demonstrate the president's commitment to the region's development.

Emmanuel Mwambire, a teacher and patron of the 32 groups, noted that the endorsement of President Ruto's re-election bid stems from tangible socio-economic empowerment programs and national government-backed infrastructure projects implemented across Kinango Sub-County. Mwambire's comments suggest that residents have seen the positive impact of these projects and are likely to support the president's re-election bid.

Governor Achani countered criticism that her administration's development agenda does not align with the needs of residents, stating that those opposing her administration are doing so for the sake of opposition. Achani emphasized that Kwale has transformed across various sectors, including education, health, water, and economic empowerment programs, since she took office.

The empowerment program for 32 SILC and self-help groups in Lutsangani Village is part of Achani's efforts to promote grassroots economic transformation. The program aims to provide financial support and training to residents, enabling them to start and grow their own businesses. By supporting these initiatives, Achani's administration hopes to reduce poverty and promote economic growth in the county.

Governor Achani's efforts to rally residents behind President Ruto's re-election bid are likely to have a significant impact on the region. With her administration's focus on grassroots economic transformation and poverty reduction, Achani has demonstrated her commitment to improving the lives of Kwale residents. As the election approaches, it remains to be seen how residents will respond to Achani's call to support President Ruto's re-election bid.

Key points

  • Governor Achani defends her administration's economic empowerment programs and rallies residents behind President Ruto's re-election bid.
  • The Kwale County Government has supported over 6,000 Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) and SILC groups across the county.
  • Governor Achani cites development projects undertaken by the National Government in the region as a reason for residents to support President Ruto's re-election bid.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.