๐๐ข๐ค๐จ๐ง๐ข ๐๐ฎ๐-๐๐จ๐ฎ๐ง๐ญ๐ฒ
๐๐๐๐ง๐๐ฌ๐๐๐ฒ, ๐๐ซ๐ ๐๐๐๐๐ฆ๐๐๐ซ ๐๐๐๐
Day Three brought the public validation exercise on the Mombasa County Revolving Fund Bill, 2025, to a close, with Likoni residents participating in large numbers to ensure their voices were heard. The forum offered a key opportunity for the community to shape legislation that strengthens small businesses and drives economic empowerment.
Presiding over the session, Hon. Jactone Madialo walked participants and Committee members through the Billโs highlights. He invited residents to share their perspectives on eligibility requirements, loan repayment processes, and strategies for handling defaulters.
Mr. Boi Mdigo of Timbwani urged that the funds be prioritised for Likoni residents, pointing out that many had been excluded in the previous cycle. He further questioned the proposed composition of the Board, noting the absence of a functioning Youth Council to appoint a representative and warning that the outlined process for womenโs nominations could result in exclusion.
Siri Mbwana Mandara from Bofu highlighted the challenges faced by informal traders like โmama wa mahamri,โ leading the Chairperson to advise that such groups should register collectively to qualify for the fund.
Rehema of Timbwani Ward requested clarification on whether individuals with past loan defaults would still qualify for the fund. The Chairperson assured participants that the Department of Youth, Gender, Sports and Public Service Administration will issue definitive guidance on the matter.
Shila Bonaya of Mtongwe Ward recommended that the Fundโs committee be chosen through elections rather than appointments to strengthen transparency. She also stressed the importance of equitable allocation so that every eligible applicant has an equal chance to benefit.
Fatma Seif Mohammed of Likoni applauded the Bill, expressing confidence that the community is ready to seize the opportunities once the fund is established.
Closing the session, Hon. Mwaka Bakari expressed gratitude to residents and pledged that their views will inform the legislative process ahead. The dayโs engagement highlighted the power of citizen input in shaping policies that promote justice and economic opportunity.
