Kapenguria: West Pokot County Women Representative Real Kasiwai on Friday launched a bursary fund worth Sh6 million from her kitty aimed at supporting needy students across the county. The fund, which is an allocation from the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF), was launched in Kapenguria and also saw women and youth groups empowered through various community projects.
According to Kenya News Agency, Kasiwai emphasized her commitment to improving education standards and uplifting vulnerable groups in the county. "This bursary will go a long way in ensuring that no student from a humble background is left behind due to lack of school fees," she said, drawing applause from the gathered crowd. She further urged the national government to increase allocations to the bursary fund.
Beyond education, the Women Rep rolled out a series of empowerment initiatives. Among them was the handing over of a fully equipped working shed for local shoe shiners, giving them a clean and safe space to operate. She also distributed sanitary pads to schoolgirls, an essential gesture towards promoting menstrual hygiene and reducing absenteeism in schools. Furthermore, businesswomen received tents to support their trade activities in markets and trading centers.
"Empowering our women and youth is not a one-day event but a continuous journey. Today is a strong step in ensuring dignity, opportunity, and growth for our people," Kasiwai added. She also addressed the pressing issue of gender-based violence (GBV), warning that it remains a serious social ill with far-reaching consequences. "We must stand united against GBV and ensure that victims get justice while perpetrators face the full force of the law," she said, calling on communities to report such cases and support survivors.
The legislature was accompanied by her fellow Beatrice Adagala, Vihiga County Women Representative, who lauded Kasiwai's initiatives. "This bursary and empowerment drive is a clear indication that leadership is about action and results. The students, women, and youth of West Pokot are lucky to have such a hands-on leader," she remarked. Kapenguria MP Samuel Moroto also gave his remarks, commending the initiative and pledging further support from his office. "We must work together as leaders to complement each other's efforts. Education is a key pillar in transforming our county, and what we have witnessed today is real impact," Moroto stated.
Former West Pokot Governor Prof. John Lonyangapuo, who was also present, echoed the sentiments of the day. He alluded to the fact that Kasiwai is proactive in her leadership and called on other leaders in the county to emulate her. "Unity among leaders and a focus on service delivery is what will change the lives of our people," he said. The colorful event ended with entertainment from local artists and a word of prayer, as beneficiaries of the bursary and empowerment projects expressed gratitude for the support and renewed hope.
This day marked a significant milestone in West Pokot County's social development journey, as leaders joined hands to uplift the lives of ordinary citizens-especially students, women, and youth.