Former Cabinet Secretary Hon. Penina Malonza spearheaded the distribution of 12,000 chickens to Kitui County SACCOs and women at Mutomo Chief’s Camp in Kitui South on Wednesday, 20th November 2024. This initiative, which is part of her broader community development agenda, aims to economically empower women, whom she described as the backbone of families. During the event, Malonza emphasized the need for leaders to launch programs that uplift communities and strengthen local economies.
Addressing the press after the distribution, Malonza expressed her vision for Kitui County to become a renowned hub for chicken production and export, similar to Uganda. She encouraged beneficiaries to embrace poultry farming as a viable economic activity that could transform their lives. The former CS highlighted that this program is not just about empowering women but also about positioning Kitui as a significant contributor to Kenya’s agricultural economy.
In addition to the chicken distribution, Malonza announced her commitment to supporting Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Mutomo by providing wheelchairs and walking aids. This move demonstrates her inclusive approach to community development, ensuring that no one is left behind in her empowerment agenda. She underscored the importance of training and equipping the beneficiaries with the skills necessary for successful chicken rearing.
Beneficiaries expressed their excitement and gratitude for the initiative, noting its potential to bring sustainable change to their lives. Many highlighted that the income generated from chicken sales could be used to meet essential needs, such as paying school fees for their children. They commended Malonza for her thoughtful intervention, calling it a real empowerment initiative that addresses the root causes of poverty.
The beneficiaries also called on other leaders to emulate Malonza’s efforts by initiating programs that uplift communities and combat poverty. They emphasized that such initiatives should focus on practical solutions that directly benefit the people, particularly women, who often bear the brunt of economic challenges in rural areas.
Hon. Penina Malonza’s initiative reflects a growing trend among leaders to address economic disparities through grassroots empowerment programs. By prioritizing women and vulnerable groups, she has set a precedent for impactful leadership that resonates with the community’s needs. This program not only addresses immediate challenges but also lays the foundation for long-term economic growth in Kitui County.
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