More than 100 community trainers in Kwale county will receive special training on business and empowerment skills.
The trainers are from across the 20 Kwale wards and will undergo a three-day short course beginning Thursday.
They will be trained in the formation and management of financial groups such as the Village Saving and Loans Association (VSLA), and self-help groups among others to spearhead socio-economic development at the grassroots level.
VSLAs are currently helping thousands of Kwale women in raising their financial status through savings and forming companies.
The training will comprise a broad spectrum of fields such as project management, leadership skills, communication strategies, conflict resolution, and sustainable development practices.
Governor Fatuma Achani said the skills will provide the trainers with the necessary skills and resources to effectively engage with their communities on matters of development.
"The trainers will gain access to a diverse range of resources and expertise to help people in their community," she said.
Achani said the short course will ensure the community trainers are provided with up-to-date information on policies, regulations, and funding opportunities to assist in creating a well-informed and competent society towards development.
She said the initiative is part of the commitment to empower women and youth and realise equal development for better livelihoods and living standards.
"Community empowerment and sustainable development is a key agenda of my administration," she added.
Achani said empowering the community is crucial in fostering inclusive growth and enhancing a resilient society towards poverty and other social vices.
The governor said her administration recognises the pivot role of women and youth in development and economic transformation.
She said establishing and equipping community-based trainers will assist in building trust, encourage participation and collective action.
Achani said the trainers will act as catalysts for progress by creating an understanding of various government policies and opportunities for the locals, thus promoting community growth.
"By working closely with residents, these trainers possess a deep understanding of unique challenges and opportunities within their communities," she said.
The governor underscored the importance of the trainers in streamlining government services and driving positive change.
She said her administration remains committed to providing necessary support and comprehensive training programmes to empower women and youth in the region.
County Executive for Social Services and Talent Management Francisca Kilonzo said the training provides a conducive platform for brainstorming various socioeconomic ideas, networking and growth.
"The programme fosters a sense of solidarity and enables trainers to learn from one another's successes and shortcomings," she said.
She said the training is aimed at imparting enhanced skills, fresh ideas, and a renewed sense of motivation to the community.
Kilonzo said with the support of county government, the community-based trainers are in a better position to develop and implement projects that address specific community needs.
She said the involvement of the county in training community-based trainers demonstrates a commitment to decentralisation and participatory governance.
Kilonzo said the programme is key in fostering a sense of responsibility, strengthening social cohesion, and sustainable development that is rooted in the priorities and aspirations of the community members themselves.
She said the county has been registering VSLAs and self-help groups among others into companies to enable them to bid tenders and compete for equal government opportunities.
She said the initiative has yielded long-term benefits, leading to more resilient and thriving communities in the county.
