Mahatma Gandhi once said, “Self-reliance is the key to freedom.” In continuing Gandhi’s enduring legacy, the Charka CTA/Eri Silk Value Chain was commissioned today in Voi, an initiative by Wezesha Bado Institute in collaboration with the Indian High Commission in Kenya, as they celebrated the 150th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. This project aims to create meaningful employment, address income insecurity, and promote climate action. In its first phase, the project is dedicated to uplifting women in Taita Taveta by fostering self-reliance and equipping them with the tools and skills needed to thrive in the green textile industry.
The project aims to train and employ 3,000 people over three years. In six years, it plans to have over 12,000 individuals trained and employed through women’s groups. Ten textile machines were donated during the event. As part of a larger vision to integrate rural communities into global markets, the initiative is poised to tap into opportunities such as the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), making it a beacon of economic empowerment for marginalized groups.
“It is through projects like this that we give our people the power to transform the global economy,” said the PS for Cooperatives and MSMEs, Mr. Wycliffe Oparanya. He praised Wezesha Bado for their transformational agenda in strengthening SMEs in Kenya.
“Leadership is about empowering people to achieve things they did not think possible,” remarked H.E. Governor Mwadime during the event. He appreciated Wezesha Bado Institute and the Indian High Commission in Kenya for such a noble initiative, which aligns with his manifesto. He urged the commission to bring more industrial development to the county to foster empowerment and self-reliance.
“Investing in rural communities is an investment in the country and a gift to the world,” remarked H.E. Namgya Khampa, the Indian High Commissioner. She underscored the objectives of Wezesha Bado Institute in bringing ideas of sustainable development, women’s empowerment, and grassroots inclusiveness in crafting the future and fostering growth. She thanked the organizers, the county government, and the women of Voi for embracing this initiative and for keeping the spirit of collaboration alive.
