Gov’t releases Ksh.1.5B for bursaries, affirmative action groups

The government has released Ksh.1.5 billion for bursaries and affirmative action groups across all 47 counties, Gender and Affirmative Action Principal Secretary Anne Wang’ombe has said.

The funds, spanning both the third and fourth tranches jointly, will cover school bursaries for learners from vulnerable households.

Of the total amount, Ksh.273 million was disbursed towards supporting bursaries and scholarships for 25,000 students, while Ksh.413 million will go towards supporting 2,000 registered affirmative action groups with grants.

“The grants are meant to increase the disposable income levels for the beneficiaries for improved livelihoods through enterprise development,” read a statement from the State Department of Gender and Affirmative Action.

Further, Ksh.677 million will go towards countywide projects whose benefits will be available to a widespread cross-section of the inhabitants of the community in the 47 counties.

“On this, the fund will continue to support in the prevention and response to Sexual and Gender Based Violence including through construction of GBV centres; socio-cultural development including nurturing of talents; provision of water facilities and other social amenities meant to provide enabling environment for businesses to thrive through the BETA economic model,” added the statement.

“To ensure continued interaction with the community, the fund has disbursed Ksh.137 million for civic education to sensitize the community on various government programmes and policies, how to access NGAAF funds and other devolved funds.”

Beneficiaries of the grants are affirmative action groups that made their applications and met the eligibility criteria through National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF) county offices by April 3, 2024.