Kwale awards Ksh.50M tenders to women, youth on Women’s Day

Kwale County Governor Fatuma Achani commemorated International Women's Day by awarding Ksh.50 million in contracts to 42 groups representing women, youth, and people living with disabilities.

The event, held at Kinango Baraza Park, emphasized the county's commitment to advancing gender equality, which is consistent with this year's theme of accelerating action for equal opportunity.

Since taking office in August 2022, Governor Achani's administration has actively encouraged women's organizations to formalize their operations by registering as limited companies.

This move allows them to conduct business transactions with both the government and the private sector. So far, over 200 women’s groups have transitioned into limited companies, with 100 of them successfully securing tenders from the Kwale County Government.

During her speech to thousands of people, Governor Achani emphasized the importance of empowering women as a way to combat gender-based violence and lift entire communities.

“By building women’s capacity, you build an entire society,” she stated. She also urged women and youth to continue registering their groups as companies to enhance their economic independence.

Kwale Deputy Governor Chirema Kombo and Women Representative Fatuma Masito echoed these sentiments, calling on women to follow Governor Achani’s example in championing women’s rights.

They also encouraged women to vie for elective positions in upcoming elections to address the underrepresentation of women in leadership roles within the county.

Meswalehe Abdallah, a beneficiary from the Kudzecha group, expressed gratitude for the transformative impact of the tenders. “We are thankful as women of Kwale because our lives have changed economically. T

he tenders we receive from Achani’s administration are paid promptly once we complete our tasks,” she said.

Among the groups awarded tenders were Yawezekana Ventures, Chongomundu Suppliers, Sambamba Malungoni, Tuko Mbele Investment, Dzimanya Enterprise, Chigato Visionary, and Bofu Muungano, among others.

The tenders cover a range of services, including cleaning in Kwale’s municipalities—Diani, Lunga Lunga, Kwale Town, and Kinango—as well as building and construction projects for the county.

The event was attended by County Secretary Sylvia Chidodo, County Executive Committee members, chief officers, directors, court magistrates, national government representatives, and various partners.