More than 200 women groups in Nairobi will receive a share of Sh39 million disbursed by the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF) under the Wezesha Mama Inua Jamii initiative, Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris announced on Monday at an event held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC). The allocation comprises Sh11 million earmarked for bursaries, Sh15 million for assorted empowerment projects, and grants of Sh250,000 for each participating women’s group. The launch seeks to drive greater economic inclusion, targeting women, youth and marginalised groups across Nairobi.The funding is part of a broader nationwide push by women leaders and government agencies to elevate socio-economic participation and reduce gender disparities in Kenya. Speaking at the launch, Passaris expressed gratitude to President William Ruto for supporting the initiative, emphasising that the funds were complemented by government backing and NGAAF’s financial frameworks.uring the event, leaders such as Faith Gitau (Nyandarua Woman Representative) and Caroline Ng’elechei (Elgeyo Marakwet Woman Representative) highlighted the programme’s role in transcending political and tribal lines and spotlighted the connection to combating gender-based violence, female genital mutilation and early marriages.Reactions to the programme were largely positive, with women leaders welcoming the tangible support and framing it as a step toward economic empowerment and community resilience. Analysts say the move could help hundreds of groups secure working capital, upgrade their operations and expand into value-adding activities. However, observers also stress the importance of transparent disbursement, sustained monitoring and alignment with long-term sustainability to ensure the grants translate into lasting impact rather than short-term gains.
Looking ahead, the successful implementation of this funding round could serve as a blueprint for future NGAAF disbursements across other counties. If managed well, the initiative may accelerate pathways for women-led enterprises, deepen their linkages into formal markets and support Kenya’s agenda for inclusive growth as framed under the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.