The youth and Women expo currently taking place at the KICC has been lauded as one of the biggest steps towards empowerment and development. More youth, women and disabled people are urged to get into business. The government is ready to involve you.A gazette notice on July 18th gave the directive for women, youth and disabled persons to be given a chance to participate in building the nation.The new directive sets aside 30% of all public tenders for youth, women and persons with disabilities.
Although it officially kicked off yesterday, I may have spotted some tenders in the dailies which made me smile. Just a month ago, one of the National Oil Corporation advertised tenders for different items and services and it felt so good to notice that some of the requirements to apply for the tender was that you must be an SME or Youth funded project. I was impressed because it means you no longer need 10 years worth of experience to offer professional services.
Small businesses, micro enterprises or disadvantaged persons who wish to participate in public procurement have to register at the National Treasury or the respective county treasury offices. All the registered entities from the national and county treasuries shall be consolidated and published by the Public Procurement Authority. All public entities are required to comply with the new rules and file quarterly reports with the Public Procurement Authority.
Just the other day, through an advert, the president also welcomed the youth to access funds for businesses and development. The uwezo fund is available for women and youth who wish to set up businesses and make a livelihood for themselves.There are very many jobless youth in Kenya but unlike the recent past, more opportunities have come up.It is upon us to take advantage of the opportunities available.
If you have been thinking of farming, I think you are right on time. Just the other day, Kenya's biggest corporate giant, Safaricom, through the Safaricom Foundation gave a grant of Kshs. 20 million to the initiative which helps young farmers get a market for their produce.
The opportunities are amazing. You can easily access the money to start off your farm projects with your friends. The market has been opened up to include you. If you have just started commercial farming, now it is time for you to start thinking big by applying for big tenders and selling your products online. What is still holding you back from pursuing your dreams?
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