Nairobi, 22nd April 2025
Nairobi City County Government played host to a significant milestone in the journey towards inclusive economic empowerment, as it partnered with Light for the World to celebrate the Power Up Project Grant Award Ceremony. The event recognized 143 micro-entrepreneurs amongst which 43 were women and 21 were Persons with Disabilities from Nairobi, Machakos, Kajiado, and Kiambu Counties.
Presiding over the ceremony as Chief Guest, Nairobi County Chief Officer for Gender Inclusivity, Ms. Maryam Dahir, lauded the initiative, noting its strong alignment with the County’s commitment to inclusive growth.
“The Nairobi County Government embraces engagement across all sectors of society, with a special focus on nurturing a socio-economic environment where everyone can thrive,” said Ms. Dahir. “True empowerment comes from giving people the tools they need to succeed and ensuring that no one is left behind. We are committed to creating a space where persons with disabilities can actively participate in and benefit from economic opportunities without exclusion or discrimination.”
Ms. Dahir congratulated the 143 entrepreneurs recognized during the event for their innovation, dedication, and performance throughout the training and selection process.
The Power Up Project is a three-year initiative focused on promoting disability inclusive green entrepreneurship in the e-waste sector. It provides aspiring and existing micro-entrepreneurs with technical training, business development support, and access to small grant funding to help them grow sustainable enterprises.
Spearheaded by Light for the World, a global development organization advocating for the rights of persons with disabilities the project aims to work in close partnership with Nairobi County to further economic empowerment programs. The initiative also engages County departments, private sector players, and organizations of persons with disabilities to ensure systematic inclusion and long-term sustainability.
To date, the Power Up Project has positively impacted over 500 entrepreneurs through skills training, mentorship, and coaching, with a special focus on youth, women, and persons with disabilities.
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