Mkongani Ward has marked a major milestone in women’s economic empowerment, with 23 youth- and women-led companies benefiting from an empowerment programme spearheaded by Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani.
The impact is already visible, with six youth- and women-led companies in Mkongani successfully securing county tenders, a step towards more inclusive economic participation. The companies are Maridadi Women Group Company, Gasambi Enterprises, Imara Vumirira, Mumoderi, Nagakale Enterprises and Mpaji Ni Mungu Enterprises.
Speaking during the event, Governor Achani reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to uplifting women, young people and vulnerable groups through targeted empowerment programmes and expanded access to economic opportunities.
“Empowerment is not a charity; it is about creating equal opportunities. When women are economically empowered, families are strengthened and communities grow,” Governor Achani said.
She added that her government will continue to support local enterprises through training, registration and fair access to county tenders, noting that empowerment remains a key pillar of her development agenda.
The governor noted that the county currently has 457 registered companies across all wards, with more than 300 already awarded tenders, a figure she said reflects growing confidence in local entrepreneurship and county-led empowerment initiatives.
Matuga Member of Parliament Kassim Tandaza praised the programme, saying it aligns with both national and county development goals.
“Empowering women at the grassroots is the fastest way to fight poverty and dependency. Programmes like this ensure public resources circulate within our communities,” he said.
Kwale Senator Issa Juma Boy echoed the remarks, stressing the importance of accountability and sustainability in empowerment initiatives.
“True empowerment is when beneficiaries can compete, win tenders and deliver quality services. What we are witnessing today is empowerment translating into real economic gain,” the senator said.
Governor Achani’s administration has rolled out multiple empowerment programmes across the county, focusing on capacity building, business registration, financial literacy and access to county procurement opportunities. The awarding of tenders to women-led companies was cited as a clear outcome of these efforts.
County leaders reiterated that empowerment programmes will continue to be expanded to ensure more residents benefit from inclusive growth and equitable development across all wards.
The event was attended by senior county officials, including CECM for Social Services Francisca Kilonzo, CECM for Water Hemedi Mwabudzo, CECM for Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries Roman Shera, Chief Officer for Social Services Riziki Mwasoza, Chief Officer for Public Service Administration Mebakari Mwatabu and Chief Officer for Education Juma Nzao, among other county officials.
