Youths await full implementation of passed Kisii County credit scheme

Young entrepreneurs and small-scale traders are upbeat after the signing of the Kisii County Trade Credit Scheme Bill by Governor James Ongwae.

Small-scale traders will now be able to access credit to scale up their businesses.

The bill provides for the establishment of a Trade Credit Scheme. The scheme will offer loans as start-up capital to individuals, producer business groups, and micro, small and medium enterprises.

The envisaged Credit Scheme will be tasked with providing funds for granting low interest loans to promote small scale traders and entrepreneurs in the county.

Onesimus Mesesi, a small-scale businessman, said the money should be disbursed immediately to enable the beneficiaries to boost their businesses.

“This is a good and timely idea that will transform business enterprises in this region. A number of youths are unable to raise capital for their business ideas,” said Mr Mesesi.

He said proper training for the beneficiaries should be done before the money is issued out to avoid misuse of the fund.

The assembly endorsed the bill with the members committing to sensitise the electorate on the need to take advantage of the capital to start businesses.

Those who will receive the loans shall have their names publicised in the county gazette.

Trade Committee Chairman Timothy Ogugu said they were keen to see that the selection for those to benefit is all inclusive.

In passing the bill, the assembly introduced an amendment that saw their participation in the appointment of the chairperson who will be forwarded to the assembly’s approval by the executive.

Sit on board

In his previous remarks, Governor Ongwae noted that he was keen on integrating the youth in entrepreneurship skills for self-reliance.

Two youths of either gender, and not public officers will be sit on the board.

The board will also include the county trade development officer, the chair of the Kenya National Chambers of Commerce, Kisii County, county chairperson of Maendeleo Ya Wanawake, as well as his Association of Persons with Disability counterpart.

The chief officer in charge of Trade or his or her representative will be secretary to the board.

The assembly also passed an amendment that created sub-county committees that will be chaired by sub-county trade development officers who will be nominated by the assembly.