Makueni NGAAF Coordinator Benjamin Nzioka (in white T-shirt) presents a Cheque of Ksh 100,000 to a women Group in Kako. Photo Courtesy. 
By Ryan Mumo
Makueni County NGAAF Coordinator Benjamin Nzioka has challenged youth and women groups benefiting from government grants to invest the funds prudently in income-generating activities that will guarantee long-term financial growth.
Speaking in Kako/Waia Ward, Mbooni Constituency, during the presentation of a Ksh 100,000 cheque to a local youth group, Nzioka praised the members for embracing table banking, saying their commitment to saving was proof that they could manage public funds responsibly.
He noted that the group had already saved Ksh 59,000 through table banking efforts, describing it as a strong indication of financial discipline and seriousness in empowering themselves economically.
“I am happy because I have noticed that you are already practicing table banking and have managed to save Ksh 59,000. This shows that even the money you are receiving from the government will not be wasted,” said Nzioka.
The coordinator emphasized that the funds issued through NGAAF are grants and therefore beneficiaries are not expected to refund the money. However, he warned against individuals seeking to exploit beneficiaries by demanding kickbacks or illegal deductions.
“The money you receive from the government is a grant and no one should ask you for even a single shilling. If anyone attempts to do so, report and denounce them immediately,” he warned.
Nzioka further cautioned group officials against misusing the funds for personal benefit, insisting that the money must serve the interests of the entire group and help uplift members economically.
“This money should not be used for personal gain by anyone. It is meant to benefit the whole group, and the government is keenly monitoring how the funds are utilized. Anyone found mishandling the money will be held accountable,” he stated.
He encouraged the group leadership to use the funds to strengthen their table banking initiative and expand business ventures that can generate returns and improve livelihoods.
Addressing the group chairman and officials, Nzioka said the additional Ksh 100,000 support from Makueni Woman Representative Hon. Rose Museo would significantly boost the group’s financial capacity when combined with their existing savings.
“This time round Hon. Rose Museo has given me Ksh 100,000 for you. Together with the Ksh 59,000 you already have, this is a good amount that can grow and by next year you could be talking about over Ksh 200,000 in your table banking,” he said.
He urged the beneficiaries not to leave the money idle in bank accounts, but instead channel it into expanding businesses and other productive investments in line with the objective of the NGAAF empowerment initiative.
“The money should not remain in the bank. It should be used to grow businesses because that is the main goal of Hon. Rose Museo’s empowerment programme,” he added.
