Garissa Woman Rep Siyad banks on new initiative to promote youth entrepreneurship

Garissa Woman Rep hands a cheque to one of the beneficiaries of the Garissa County edition of the National Government Affirmative Action Fund initiatives for the 2023/24 financial year. [Saman Mohamed, Standard]

Garissa Woman Representative Udgoon Siyad has launched a new initiative aimed at empowering the youth and promoting entrepreneurship.

The Garissa County edition of the National Government Affirmative Action Fund initiatives for the 2023/24 financial year is designed to create opportunities in various service industries, providing the youth with resources and tools to build sustainable livelihoods.

At the heart of the initiatives is the provision of motorbikes to young people, enabling them to start transportation or delivery businesses.

The Woma Rep said the project aims to address the high unemployment rate among the youth by giving them a means to generate income.

Additionally, car washing machines and beauty therapy items for salon businesses have been distributed, further expanding opportunities in the service sector.

"We have launched cash grants amounting to Sh21,807,620 through 127 groups which were extended to women, youth groups and PWDs aimed at enhancing women's economic empowerment and value-addition initiatives," she said.

Siyad said in achieving economic independence and self-reliance, such initiatives are intended to create sustainable livelihoods.

In a further show of commitment to education, the woman MP also launched a bursary program worth Sh12 million aimed at supporting needy and vulnerable students, with a particular focus on girls.

She said the bursary program seeks to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder deserving students from pursuing their education.

"Education is a powerful tool for change," she emphasised saying, "This bursary program will ensure that our bright but disadvantaged students, especially girls, can continue their studies and achieve their dreams."

Garissa Woman Rep Udgoon Siyad is welcomed by students of Alinjugur Secondary School during the launch of NGAAF initiatives in Garissa County. [Saman Mohamed, Standard]

Several teachers while expressing their gratitude to the initiatives highlighted the transformative potential of the bursary program, particularly for vulnerable students, emphasising that this financial support will significantly reduce dropout rates and ensure that more girls stay in school.

"These bursaries are a lifeline for many of our students who struggle to afford their education," said Mr Ahmed Noor, a local teacher.

Noor said the school community is grateful for the MP's commitment to education and for providing their students with the opportunity to pursue their dreams without financial barriers.

Amina Hassan, a beneficiary who received a cash grant to start her own business said the grant was a big step towards the path to her financial independence.

I am grateful that I can support my family and contribute to my community. I am incredibly thankful to our Woman Rep for believing in us and giving us the tools to build better futures," said Ms Hassan.