Co-operatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya has emphasized the importance of repaying loans taken under the Hustler Fund initiative, declaring that defaulters will be pursued to recover the funds. Speaking in Uasin Gishu County during a dairy stakeholders’ meeting, Oparanya noted that the Sh60 billion loaned out through the scheme was aimed at uplifting the livelihoods of Kenyans, and its recovery is critical to maintaining the program’s sustainability.
“The solution to a debt is to pay back and not to run away. Those who defaulted will be traced and made to repay the loans,” he stated.
Oparanya revealed that while the fund was accessed by over 20 million Kenyans, only 2 million borrowers adhered to the repayment terms. He highlighted that those who repaid their loans have improved their credit scores, enabling them to borrow up to Sh150,000 through the scheme.
The CS underscored the government’s vision for the Hustler Fund as a tool to empower Kenyans to invest in income-generating ventures. He noted that the recovered funds would ensure that more citizens benefit from the initiative.
During the meeting at Allo Dairies in Seiyo near Cheptiret, Oparanya urged dairy farmers to boost productivity, assuring them of government support. He was accompanied by Uasin Gishu Deputy Governor Evans Kapkea and Allo Dairies director Geraldine Jeruto.
Oparanya announced an increase in daily milk intake at the New Kenya Co-operative Creameries (KCC) to over 400,000 liters and revealed that farmers supplying milk to the firm would start receiving bonuses from next month. Additionally, he assured farmers of prompt payments between the 5th and 10th of every month.
In an effort to enhance communication and address farmers’ challenges, the CS publicly shared his mobile phone number, inviting farmers to text him with their concerns. He also encouraged dairy farmers to strengthen their cooperative societies, which would provide better access to financial support for school fees and other needs.
Beyond dairy, Oparanya encouraged farmers to diversify into coffee farming, describing it as a profitable venture.
Later, the CS conducted a similar meeting in Seregea, Kakamega County, reiterating the government’s commitment to supporting farmers and ensuring the success of the Hustler Fund initiative.
