Supporting peace initiatives

Hon. Simon Chelugui, EGH, Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Co-operatives, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMES), has committed to supporting peace initiatives through empowerment programs and collaborating with stakeholders in the Government, Private Sector, Non-Governmental organizations, and civil societies.
The International Day of Peace celebrations held today at Baragoi Town in Samburu County culminated in the launch of the Moran MSME and the Amani Club for schools.
The event was graced by Dr. Rev. Kobia, Chairperson of the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), in collaboration with Governor Samburu County H.E. Lalii Lelit, National Government representatives, NCIC Commissioners, and the National and County Government representatives.
CS Chelugui commended the collaboration between the Ministry of Cooperatives and MSMEs and the National Cohesion and Integration Commission, which represents a significant step toward sustainable peace and development in pastoralist communities.
He expressed his delight in hearing that the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has identified eight groups of reformed Morans ready to embrace alternative livelihoods and become Peace Champions, saying these Morans will serve as agents of change, not only for themselves but also for their communities.
He further stated that the Ministry of Co-operatives and MSMEs Development, in collaboration with the NCIC, is embarking on a transformative initiative to support and empower the eight groups of reformed Morans by facilitating the transition. In particular, the Ministry will support groups for financial deepening and inclusion through accessible and affordable financial services for the vulnerable and marginalized.
CS reiterated that the Ministry, through the Uwezo Fund, Youth Fund, and Hustler Fund, has disbursed funds to qualified groups in the three constituencies of Samburu County, enabling them to engage in income-generating activities that have significantly reduced instances of youth involvement in harmful activities that promote violence in our communities.
"Empowering reformed Morans to embrace alternative livelihoods and become peace champions is not only an investment in their future but also in the peace and prosperity of their communities and the nation as a whole. This initiative serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that positive transformation is possible, and that peace can prevail over violence and conflict," CS said.
The event provided a platform for sensitization on Government empowerment programs and  an opportunity  for transitioning the Moran Groups to other Government Financial inclusion programs.