Eight women and youth-led Blue Economy enterprise groups in Kilifi County have received equipment worth KSh12 million in a major boost aimed at enhancing livelihoods, climate resilience, and sustainable use of coastal resources.
The equipment, distributed under the ReSea Project, includes laptops, refrigerators, beehives, kitchen appliances, and furniture.
The groups officially received the equipment during a ceremony held at Buntwani Waterfront Park in Malindi and attended by Kilifi Deputy Governor Florence Chibule, Shella Ward MCA Twahir Abdulkarim, representatives from Global Affairs Canada, Mission Inclusion, and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
ReSea Project is funded by Global Affairs Canada and implemented by Mission Inclusion, IUCN, and Groots Kenya.
It seeks to empower coastal communities through sustainable Blue Economy enterprises while strengthening their capacity to adapt to the effects of climate change.
Speaking during the ceremony the Kilifi Deputy Governor said the support would create sustainable income-generating opportunities for communities in Malindi, Magarini, and Kilifi North through activities such as mangrove honey production, eco-tourism, crab farming, and marine litter recycling.
“As part of our continued commitment to improving livelihoods and helping communities adapt to climate change, this support will directly empower our communities while equipping beneficiaries with critical skills in climate adaptation, resilience building, and sustainable management of coastal resources,” she said.
Chibule said women and youth remain at the centre of efforts to transform livelihoods, protect the environment, and drive inclusive economic growth across the county.
The deputy governor said partnerships between development agencies and county governments were key to creating opportunities that uplift families while safeguarding natural resources for future generations.
Present during the launch include Kerry Max, Deputy Director of Global Affairs Canada, Andréanne Martel of Mission Inclusion, Thomas Sberna of IUCN, and Dr. Davies Makila from the State Department for Blue Economy.
Shella Ward MCA Twahir Abdulkarim praised the initiative, saying it would improve the economic well-being of women in the area.
He expressed pride that the Shella Pwani Women Group was among the beneficiaries, describing the project as a testament to ongoing efforts to empower women economically and socially.
“Today I joined Deputy Governor Florence Chibule and the ReSea Project team in supporting women through the provision of equipment that will improve their livelihoods and strengthen economic activities,” said Abdulkarim.
He thanked the county government and development partners for their contribution towards transforming the lives of women and promoting sustainable community development.
Those who benefitted are expected to use the equipment to expand their enterprises, create employment opportunities, and contribute to the conservation of coastal ecosystems that support the region’s Blue Economy.
