Board Inauguration

FRIDAY, 17TH MARCH: Mr. Simon Chelugui, the Cabinet Secretary of Cooperatives and Micro Small and Medium Enterprises Development, presided over the inauguration ceremony of the new Youth Enterprise Development Fund (YEDF) Board in an event witnessed by Ms. Susan Mang’eni, the Principal Secretary for MSMEs Development. The Board will be chaired by Hon Fatma Barayan, other appointed members of the Board include; Josephine Achunga Oyombe, Caroline Wambui Njue, Daniel Kiplangat Mutai, Symon A. Almaida and Jacinta Atemba Makokha.

In his address to the Board, CS Simon Chelugui emphasized the importance of prioritizing the interests of youth entrepreneurs in the decision-making process of the YEDF. He noted that the Fund has faced significant challenges in the past, which have hindered its ability to effectively serve the youth of Kenya. The CS urged the Board to restore the image of the YEDF and transform it into an efficient and trustworthy institution that addresses the needs of young entrepreneurs.
CS Chelugui also tasked the Board to adopt digital technologies and upgrade legacy processes to enhance the Fund’s operations, delivery of value, customer service, and employee empowerment. He gave the Board a three-month ultimatum to ensure that all YEDF operations are digitized, and loan products are available on #254 digital platform to efficiently serve the youth of Kenya.
Furthermore, CS Chelugui challenged the Board to formulate policies and strategies for the YEDF, ensure proper management and utilization of the Fund, create partnerships and collaborations with other stakeholders, monitor and evaluate the Fund’s performance to meet its objectives, and advocate for the interests of young entrepreneurs.
In her remarks, PS Susan Mang’eni urged the Board Members to use their expertise and experiences in their respective fields to add value to the YEDF, given the critical role that the Fund plays in addressing the challenges facing youth-owned enterprises.
The CEO, Mr. Josiah Moriasi, welcomed the Board to the YEDF and committed the management’s support as they provide oversight and strategic direction to ensure the Fund delivers on its mandate.