Mombasa County rolls out financing programme for enterprises

Through the Revolving Fund Act, 2026, the county established a framework for affordable financing to entrepreneurs, youth, women, persons with disabilities, cooperatives and small businesses across the county.

Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Sheriff Nassir on Wednesday inaugurated the Board of the Mombasa County Revolving Fund, paving the way for the rollout of the financing model.

Speaking during the ceremony, Governor Nassir said the revolving fund will address obstacles facing small businesses by improving access to affordable capital.

"Economic transformation begins when people with good ideas have access to the capital they need to grow. We are moving with urgency to operationalize this Fund so that businesses can access financing, create jobs and expand opportunities across Mombasa,” he said.

The governor said the establishment of the board is another step towards ensuring economic growth directly benefits residents by supporting local enterprises.

The inaugural board is chaired by Samuel Omondi Okech, with Munira Hamisi serving as Chief Executive Officer. Other members are Elizabeth Sonia Michael, Abduswamad Noor, Hamza Kombo, Hamisi Kurichwa and Swaleh Mwalizuma.

Speaking after taking the oath of office, youth representative Hamza Kombo described the fund as a major milestone for young people in the county.

“This is a breakthrough for the youth of Mombasa. For a long time many young people felt left behind, but today they have a real opportunity to access capital and build their businesses,” Kombo said.

He said the board would work to ensure the fund is accessible to all eligible beneficiaries without discrimination and that applications would be made available through digital platforms.

“This is a people’s fund. Any young person, woman or person with a disability who qualifies should be able to access it without knowing anyone. What matters is that you are a resident of Mombasa and want to improve your livelihood,” he added.

Kombo also said beneficiaries would receive financial literacy training to help them invest the loans wisely and build sustainable businesses.

Youth leaders who attended the swearing-in welcomed the initiative, expressing hope that the fund will reach those it was designed to support.

“We hope this fund reaches every eligible young person, women and persons with disabilities. It should not become a political tool but an opportunity that genuinely transforms lives,” said Hassan Mbangwe Athman.