Uasin Gishu Governor Dr Jonathan Bii has hinted at plans to strengthen support for savings and credit cooperative societies (SACCOs) and cooperative societies as part of his administration’s efforts to promote grassroots economic empowerment.

Speaking on Wednesday in Kamagut Ward, Turbo Sub-County, during an empowerment programme for three women’s groups drawn from the ward, Bii said cooperatives have proven to be an effective vehicle for mobilising resources, improving household incomes and creating sustainable economic opportunities.

The Governor challenged the women’s groups to expand their membership and strengthen their savings as they work towards meeting the requirements for forming SACCOs, which would enable them to access wider financial and economic opportunities.

“My administration, through the Department of Cooperatives, will visit you for training on the importance of SACCOs and how you can benefit from them,” said Governor Bii.

He noted that the County Government has so far disbursed more than KSh60 million to cooperative societies across Turbo Sub-County, underscoring the administration’s commitment to strengthening cooperative enterprises at the grassroots.

County Executive Committee Member for Cooperatives, Dr Philip Chebunet, urged the groups to continue prioritising initiatives that promote sustainable growth, financial discipline and collective economic empowerment.

His Sports counterpart,Robert Kemei, echoed the call, encouraging the women to embrace opportunities that can improve their livelihoods and strengthen their groups.

The women had earlier undergone capacity-building sessions covering areas such as family strengthening, personal development and stress management, aimed at equipping them with skills to improve both their personal and socio-economic wellbeing.