Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya on Wednesday, January 21, held a consultative meeting with Ikolomani MP Bernard Shinali and Sirisia MP John Waluke, alongside former Kiminini MP and National Standards Council Chairperson Chris Wamalwa.
The engagement focused on advancing inclusive economic growth and improving how government policies translate into real opportunities for communities on the ground.
The leaders agreed that closer coordination between ministries and elected representatives is key to ensuring development programs reach the people they are intended to serve.
A major part of the discussion centered on the role of cooperatives and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in driving job creation and wealth generation.
CS Oparanya noted that these sectors remain the backbone of Kenya’s economy, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas where formal employment opportunities are limited.
The leaders exchanged views on practical ways to support cooperatives and small businesses, including access to affordable financing, improved standards, and capacity-building initiatives.They emphasized that empowering MSMEs can help stimulate local industries and reduce economic inequalities across regions.
Oparanya reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to working closely with leaders at all levels of government to ensure policies are responsive to the needs of ordinary Kenyans.
He said sustained dialogue with MPs and local leaders allows the national government to better understand grassroots challenges and design effective solutions.
The meeting comes days after the rift between CS Wycliffe Oparanya and Governor Fernandes Barasa widened after they held separate Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Linda Ground forums in the county.
The event was led by county Woman Representative, Elsie Muhanda, who is seeking to challenge Barasa in the coming elections, together with Lugari MP Nabii Nabwera, who is also at odds with Barasa following last year’s disputed ODM Kakamega party polls.
By Meta