Ushiriki Wema signs MOU with partners to expand economic empowerment initiative to uplift women and youth
Ushiriki Wema women & youth empowerment Chief Executive and Programs Director Sintoyia Kasaine, (Centre) together with partners, Equity Group Senior Manager for women and youth banking Charity Nkirote (far left), FANA Networks Senior Director Elizabeth Rop, Ajira digital Private Sector Engagement Specialist Fauziya Mbarak (far right) and Huduma Kenya C.E.O Ben Kai during a stakeholders’ meeting at a Nairobi Hotel.
Ushiriki Wema, a charitable initiative linked to the office of the spouce to the Prime Cabinet Secretary, Tessie Musalia has unveiled a bold new economic empowerment program targeting women and youth entrepreneurs. The initiative aims to provide critical resources, advocacy, and networking opportunities to elevate these groups as key drivers of economic growth and innovation.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ breakfast meeting on Wednesday, Ushiriki Wema Women & Youth Empowerment Chief Executive and Programs Director, Sintoyia Kasaine, emphasized the organization’s commitment to expanding its outreach beyond existing programs that serve the elderly, persons with disabilities, maternal and child health initiatives, environment, health, and sanitation
Kasaine acknowledged the vital role of partners in advancing the initiative’s mission, expressing gratitude for their unwavering support. The breakfast meeting brought together Equity Group, Huduma Kenya under the Ministry of Public Service and Human Capital Development, Ajira Digital, KEPSA under the Ministry of Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy, and Fanaka Network, a tech solutions and data management firm.
“Our shared vision is a powerful reminder of what we can achieve together through collaborative efforts. The commitment from our partners, both old and new, is a clear indication that this is a venture geared towards touching lives and building a just society for all,” said Kasaine.
The new phase of Ushiriki Wema’s empowerment program is centered on addressing challenges faced by women and youth in entrepreneurship while unlocking opportunities for innovation and job creation.
“These two segments of society are essential to our country’s economic growth. We want to create an impactful change by empowering women and youth to lead dignified and financially stable lives,” Kasaine stated
The program enhances financial literacy, digital innovation, and market access while fostering strategic partnerships with financial institutions and development partners to drive inclusive economic growth and entrepreneurship in Kenya.
Kasaine reaffirmed that the program will advocate for a conducive business environment that fosters trade, investment, and the growth of youth- and women-led enterprises.
“For the youth, our core mandate is to engage, educate, and elevate them to embrace digital innovation, enhance financial literacy, and forge strategic partnerships. This will help tackle unemployment and address youth marginalization effectively,” she said
During the event, key partners reiterated their commitment to supporting the initiative. Equity Group’s Senior Manager for Women and Youth Banking, Charity Nkirote, highlighted the financial institution’s dedication to empowering women and youth entrepreneurs through customized financial solutions.
Other key representatives included Elizabeth Rop (Senior Director, Fanaka Networks), Fauziya Mbarak (Private Sector Engagement Specialist, Ajira Digital), and Ben Kai Chílumo (CEO, Huduma Kenya).
Founded in 2022, Ushiriki Wema has been at the forefront of community outreach and social impact initiatives, focusing on uplifting vulnerable communities and fostering inclusivity. With the expansion of its economic empowerment arm, the organization is set to position women and youth as global leaders in business, innovation, and inclusivity. “We look forward to bringing on board more like-minded partners as we continue this transformative journey,” concluded Kasaine.
Ushiriki Wema’s renewed focus on entrepreneurial growth and digital transformation marks a significant step in addressing economic disparities and ensuring a more prosperous and inclusive future for all Kenyans.
