EMPOWERING YOUNG WOMEN, TRANSFORMING LIVES IN SIAYA.
By Grace Adhiambo.
Adolescent girls and young women in Siaya County are taking meaningful steps towards financial independence and improved well-being through the Siaya Economic Empowerment Smart Start Initiative, implemented by KMET.
Currently reaching approximately 150 young women across four wards in Alego Usonga and Gem sub-counties, the initiative combines savings, group loans, mentorship and health education to help participants build sustainable livelihoods and make informed decisions about their futures.
Through weekly group meetings, members explore income-generating activities such as poultry farming, soap-making, beadwork, selling traditional cakes and kitchen gardening.
For Josephine Achieng, a young mother from Maliera in Gem Sub-county, the initiative has provided an opportunity to turn a setback into a fresh start. After her initial farming venture failed to yield the expected results, she accessed a group loan and established a business selling jerseys and shoes, which is now performing well.
Beyond financial empowerment, members receive education on reproductive health, family planning, responsible parenting, healthy relationships and Early Childhood Development and Education (ECDE). The initiative also connects participants to essential services, including birth registration and Social Health Authority (SHA) registration.
KMET is seeking stronger collaboration with relevant county departments and the Civil Registration Department to expand access to public services, business opportunities, skills development and sustainable livelihood programmes.
While challenges such as loan repayment persist, the commitment of these young women demonstrates the power of resilience, mentorship and collective action.
When young women are empowered with knowledge, financial opportunities and the right support, they can transform their lives, strengthen their families and contribute to thriving communities.
