Kilifi women’s groups receive KSh12 million boost

By Alex Kalama

More than eight women-led blue economy enterprise groups in Kilifi County have received equipment worth KSh12 million under the ReSea Project, a Canadian-funded initiative aimed at strengthening women-led enterprises while promoting eco-tourism and environmental conservation.

The donation, facilitated by Mission Inclusion, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), and Groots Kenya, was unveiled at Buntwani Waterfront Park in Malindi during a ceremony attended by Kilifi Deputy Governor Florence Chibule and Shella Ward MCA Twahir Abdulkarim.

The equipment includes laptops, freezers, gas cookers, ovens, furniture, and modern beekeeping tools.

Organisers said the support is intended to help women’s groups expand their businesses, improve record-keeping, and adopt sustainable business practices.

“This project is about more than equipment; it is about giving women the tools to thrive. We are proud to see our women step into economic independence and environmental stewardship,” said Deputy Governor Florence Chibule.

Transforming women-led enterprises

For many beneficiaries, the project marks a major turning point.

Amina Hamisi Hemed, chairperson of the Mida Bidii Yetu na Kazi Group, said the support had transformed their outlook.

“Before, we had nothing—no equipment and no resources. Now we have laptops and soon solar power. By December, I believe our group will be completely transformed,” she said.

Latifa Abdalla, leader of the Shella Pwani Women Group, echoed the sentiments, noting that access to equipment would help boost their eco-tourism venture.

“We faced challenges because business requires capital. Thanks to ReSea, we now have freezers, laptops, and gas cookers. Our eco-tourism hotel will soon be fully operational,” she said.

Promoting conservation and sustainability

Meanwhile, Lilian Achieng Ouma of Mkwajuni Young Mothers explained how the project had revolutionised their beekeeping activities through training and modern equipment.

“We used to place hives randomly, not knowing that mangrove honey was of superior quality. The project taught us proper hive management. Now we have modern beehives, smokers, and laptops to keep records safely,” she said.

The ReSea Project places equal emphasis on economic empowerment and environmental conservation, encouraging women to embrace eco-friendly practices while creating sustainable income-generating opportunities.

“The training we received was as important as the equipment. We learned entrepreneurship skills in our own languages, ensuring every woman understood. That knowledge has carried us forward,” said Hemed.

With modern tools and enhanced skills, women’s groups across Kilifi are now better positioned to run sustainable enterprises, attract tourists, and improve their livelihoods.

“This support has given us hope. We can now dream bigger, and our businesses will finally stand on their own,” said Abdalla.