20X Entrepreneur made a significant impact in Homa Bay County through its transformative Chanuka, Jipange na Opportunities initiative, a program aimed at empowering local artisans, SMEs, and entrepreneurs in Kenya’s Jua Kali sector. The initiative, which had already successfully engaged 1,097 SMEs and artisans across Embu, Nakuru, Machakos, and Kwale, expanded to Homa Bay with a renewed focus on economic empowerment, financial inclusion, and industry partnerships.
Homa Bay County was uniquely positioned for this training, given its strategic location along the shores of Lake Victoria and its ongoing efforts to bridge the housing gap through the National Housing Corporation’s Affordable Housing Project. The 400-unit affordable housing development in Homa Bay town served as a testament to the county’s commitment to sustainable urbanization and local economic growth. With the first phase of 110 units nearing completion, there was an urgent need to connect local artisans, contractors, and suppliers with opportunities within this and other government-backed projects.
“We are excited to bring this initiative to Homa Bay, a county that is rapidly developing and holds vast untapped potential for local artisans and entrepreneurs and the response has been overwhelming. This initiative was not just about training; it was about unlocking real economic opportunities for small businesses by connecting them to larger projects, financial resources, and industry networks. By empowering local entrepreneurs with necessary skills we are taking a significant step toward strengthening the informal sector and ensuring that government initiatives truly benefit the communities they serve.”
Homa Bay’s economy, driven by fishing, agriculture, and a growing construction sector, hold significant potential. However, local artisans and SMEs often struggle with visibility, access to business financing, and inclusion in large-scale projects. The Chanuka, Jipange na Opportunities initiative seeks to bridge this gap by equipping participants with essential business skills, financial literacy, and direct linkages to project opportunities in the affordable housing sector. The program also emphasizes negotiations with manufacturers for better supply terms and sustainable business growth.
Additionally, this initiative is being implemented in partnership with Bingwa.ke, a digital platform connecting artisans and retailers with job opportunities, and The Federation of Jua Kali Associations and United Manpower, a recruitment company certified by the National Employment Authority (NEA), which played a key role in mobilization and engagement.
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