The County Government of Uasin Gishu is urging Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) to register at least one company, develop strategic plans, understand group dynamics, and conduct risk management assessments to ensure their sustainability.

Speaking on Saturday as the chief guest during the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Serombei CBO, an organization involved in various welfare activities, including parent visitation, the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Trade and Cooperatives emphasized that registering a company would empower CBOs to expand their services beyond local boundaries to regional markets.

Cheruto encouraged members to take full advantage of the services already provided by the county government, including opportunities in dairy farming and the promotion of high-value crops, to boost their income and drive economic growth.

“Since you have ventured into supplying coffee seedlings, conduct research on the varieties that are in demand in neighbouring counties. This will create opportunities for you to supply to those regions,” said Cheruto.

The CECM also outlined other government initiatives available to them, including the County Aggregation and Industrial Park (CAIP), which will facilitate aggregation and value addition of agricultural produce once complete, as well as the Export Processing Zone (EPZ) for product exportation.

On the issue of technology, she urged them to utilize the e-Government Procurement (e-GP) portal to apply for tenders and access other available opportunities, noting that the government currently prioritizes businesses operating on digital platforms.

“Ensure you also participate in government capacity-building trainings, as these platforms will equip you with essential knowledge on financial management and other critical areas,” she added.

“We also have the Cooperative Enterprise Development Fund (CEDF), which offers loans to SACCOs and cooperative societies at 5% per annum to help them expand their ventures. However, to qualify for these funds, you need to be formally registered,” she stated.

According to the chairlady, Beatrice Cheserek, “We sat down and decided to register a company that would allow us to access government opportunities such as funding.”

She also highlighted that, beyond issuing loans to their members, the CBO has engaged in other economic activities that have significantly contributed to their progress.