National gov't, devolved units urged to support CBOs

The County Government of Machakos has been urged to formulate policies and enact laws that support the growth of community based organisations in order to speed up development in the rural areas.

Upper Manza CBO Chairman Nicholas Kyalo said CBOs are in a better position to fight poverty and spur development within communities if properly empowered by the government.

Mr Kyalo who spoke as the CBO which was established in 2004 marked its 20 years of existence, said the organisation had achieved a lot in the area, especially water distribution within Tala in Matungulu Sub-County.

He added that the CBO continues to empower members through table banking, offering catering services among other life transforming initiatives.

"We started our community organisation in 2004 because of the problems that affect communities such as lack of water, poor road networks and poverty among many others," he said last week during a meeting with members at Katine Village in Matungulu Sub-County.

He said most community groups faced the challenge of sustainability as they lacked long-term plans to guide their operations.

Mr Kyalo said his organisation is willing to offer guidance and training to upcoming CBOs on how to establish long-term plans.

"We would also like to partner with other community organisations so as to mentor and train them to develop long term goals because our people believe in certain projects after seeing successful outcomes from others," said Mr Kyalo.

He thanked both the national and county government for facilitating the group in the area of registration, but added that more needed to be done to support community based organisations.

Mr Kyalo also thanked the local community for trusting the organisation to deliver services such as catering among others.

The catering department of the organisation has over 60 members who are hired during occasions such as weddings and funerals.