Unlock Opportunities for Young Agripreneurs in Kenya

Leaders of Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs) from Kenya’s Western and Nyanza regions convened in Kisumu County for a strategic engagement forum aimed at expanding access to inclusive financial services for young women and men, persons with disabilities, and refugees participating in agricultural value chains. The forum was organized and hosted by the Financial Inclusion for Youth and MSMEs in Agriculture (FIYMA) Program, which is implemented by Micro Enterprises Support Programme Trust (MESPT), East Africa Market Development Associates (EAMDA), NCBA CLUSA, and Women Empowerment Link (WEL) in partnership with Mastercard Foundation.

Bringing together SACCO leaders, County Cooperative Directors, and FIYMA Program partners, the forum provided a platform for dialogue on how financial institutions can play a greater role in addressing barriers that prevent underserved young people from accessing affordable and flexible financial services. Discussions focused on strengthening partnerships, supporting youth-led agricultural enterprises, and creating dignified and sustainable employment opportunities for young people engaged in agriculture.

Participants gained a deeper understanding of the FIYMA Program’s vision and explored practical approaches for delivering integrated financial and non-financial services tailored to the needs of young agripreneurs. The forum highlighted the critical role SACCOs play in extending financial inclusion to rural communities and supporting the growth of agricultural micro, small, and medium enterprises.

By strengthening the capacity of SACCOs to better serve young people, persons with disabilities, and refugees, the FIYMA Program is helping build a more inclusive financial ecosystem that promotes resilient agricultural enterprises and sustainable livelihoods. The event was officially opened by John Mungala, Director of Cooperatives, Kisumu County, who underscored the importance of partnerships in driving economic opportunities and empowering the next generation of agricultural entrepreneurs.