Turkana youths, women to have easier access of gov’t loans

Youth and women in Turkana County will now benefit from accessible loans after the county government in conjunction with the United Nations Development Programme launched a Biashara Center in Lodwar Town to facilitate loan transactions.

Speaking at the launch ceremony, Youth Enterprise Chairman Ronie Osumba expressed concern that Turkana residents have not been accessing and applying for loans provided by the government, especially the youth fund.

Osumba said he was shocked to receive a document that showed Turkana youths have borrowed only Ksh16 million while youths from Uasin Gishu and other counties were  taking larger amounts.

He urged the youth to take advantage of the 30 per cent tenders offered for youths, women and persons with disability by the government so as to improve their living standards.

Turkana Governor Josphat Nanok advised the youth against misusing loans for non-investment causes such as furnishing their houses.

He clarified that the Biashara Centre would help youths and women access the Youth Enterprise Fund, adding that it was then up to them to consider right steps to ensure the funds bring beneficial returns.

Written by Lucy Akinyi