A youth officer has said poor interpretation of various programmes initiated by the government due to high levels of illiteracy levels has impeded development in parts of Kiambu County.
Speaking to journalists in her office on Monday, Kiambu Sub-County youth officer, Charity Githinji noted that the low education levels amongst the locals was the biggest challenge facing the success of project implementation including the use of Uwezo Fund.
The officer said illiteracy had impeded development of the area because many residents lack business skills to engage in meaningful economic ventures provided by the government and other stakeholders.
The officer revealed that more than 140 groups had applied for the funds but approximately 47 received loans ranging between Sh50,000-500,000.
She said the Uwezo Fund organising committee had spearheaded the provision of mentorship programmess aimed at boosting skills among other beneficiaries.
Githinji emphasised that the various groups that have been allocated funds were advised on what business they can venture into.
She said agri-business and bodaboda enterprises were some of the businesses the office encouraged those who were facilitated to take up as they were less technical.
“We teach the various groups which comprises of youth, people living with disabilities and women, entrepreneurship skills that will help change their livelihoods through networking and boosting managerial skills,” she said.
The youth officer said the funds were meant to help them improve their standards of living, saying that the initiative will be a resourceful venture to those who will embrace it and use the funds wisely.
“The Uwezo Fund programme was aimed channelling funds to assist the youths, people living with disabilities and women. It has helped change the ability of many families to fend for themselves without over depending on relief,” said Githinji.