Nyeri Woman Representative Rahab Mukami has emphasized the significant impact of the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF) in empowering vulnerable groups and promoting education in the region.

Speaking at her Nyeri Town office on Monday during a public participation session, Ms Mukami highlighted the importance of safeguarding the fund and ensuring its continued effectiveness by entrenching it into the Constitution.

Ms Mukami, who has been actively involved in the outreach efforts of the fund, noted that NGAAF has played a pivotal role in offering educational bursaries to learners from disadvantaged families, ensuring that vulnerable children can access quality education.

She specifically mentioned the contributions made to students living with disabilities, underscoring that the fund’s impact has been felt widely in schools such as Karatina Special School for the Mentally Handicapped, and Wandumbi Special School.

“We have been able to support the education of many learners with disabilities, ensuring they receive the help they need to succeed,” Ms Mukami stated.

“This is a critical step in fostering inclusivity and ensuring no child is left behind.”

Additionally, the fund has been instrumental in supporting women’s welfare groups, providing tents, chairs, and financial support for business startups.

Ms Mukami highlighted that these donations have helped empower women and youths, enabling them to build sustainable livelihoods.

“I have personally reached out to women, youths, and vulnerable groups at the grassroots level to ensure that development reaches every corner of our communities,” she said.

“NGAAF has made a tangible difference in their lives.”

Thousands of residents have benefited from the fund, which has been used not only for educational bursaries, but also for providing grants to support local businesses and initiatives that uplift the community.

Ms Mukami emphasized the importance of protecting the fund from potential threats.

“The NGAAF kitty should be safeguarded from individuals who may seek to sabotage the development of our people,” she said.

“We must ensure that this vital resource is used effectively and is not hindered by unnecessary obstacles.”

She also voiced her concern over ongoing court battles that threaten the stability and future of the fund.

“Endless litigation will only disadvantage our people,” Mukami warned. “We cannot afford to allow legal challenges to derail the progress we have made.”

During the public participation event, the residents voiced their strong support for the fund’s entrenchment in the Constitution.

Many shared their personal stories of how NGAAF has helped improve their lives, whether through educational opportunities or business empowerment.

Ms Mukami reiterated her commitment to ensuring that NGAAF is protected and institutionalised, saying that its benefits must be sustained for future generations.

"The support we have received from the people here today is clear," she said.

"There is overwhelming backing for the idea of making NGAAF a constitutional fixture, ensuring its benefits continue for years to come."

The Nyeri Woman Representative concluded by urging both local leaders and the government to remain focused on improving the lives of the most vulnerable members of society, ensuring that funds like NGAAF continue to make a lasting positive impact.