Trans Nzoia County Government and the Youth Enterprise Development Fund (YEDF) on Monday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on a range of initiatives.
The collaboration encompasses a wide range of initiatives designed to create employment opportunities and nurture youth-owned Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
Priority value chains such as edible oils, leather, dairy, rice, coffee/tea, and cotton have since been identified as focal points for job creation within the county.
Speaking during the MoU signing ceremony at the County Headquarters in Kitale town, Governor George Natembeya lauded the partnership as a significant step towards empowering young entrepreneurs and driving economic growth in the county.
“This MoU is a testament to our commitment to supporting youth entrepreneurs and creating a conducive environment for them to thrive,” said the Governor.
“By working together with YEDF, we can provide young people with the resources and support they need to start and grow their businesses, create jobs, and contribute to the development of our county.”
Support for youth entrepreneurs
YEDF CEO Josiah Moriasi hailed the partnership as a unique opportunity to scale up support for youth entrepreneurs in Trans Nzoia County.
“We are excited to partner with Trans Nzoia County to support youth entrepreneurs and create jobs,” said Moriasi. “Through this MOU, we will be able to provide young people with the skills, training, and financing they need to start and grow their businesses.”
Key areas of cooperation under the MoU include, fostering employment in priority value chains, providing holistic business development support, offering affordable commercial infrastructure and incubation programs as well as enhancing access to business financing.
The MoU also covers conducting research and formulating policies conducive to youth entrepreneurship, mobilizing resources and cultivating partnerships alongside advocating for and raising awareness of opportunities for youth in micro, small, and medium enterprises.
“This MOU is a significant step forward in our efforts to support youth entrepreneurship in Trans Nzoia County. By working together with the County Government, we can create a more supportive environment for young people to start and grow their businesses,” said YEDF Board Chairperson Fatma Baryan.
In support of small businesses, the County Government has also set aside funds through the county NAWIRI kitty to provide businesspersons with loans at reduced interest rates.
It will also provide them with the access to capital they need to start and grow their businesses.
