Bodaboda sector plays a vital role in the economic growth of this Country. Apart from fastening movement of goods and services, the sector has also provided a source of income to many youths.

Cognizant of this, Equity Bank(Mbale branch) in collaboration with Car and General Limited today handed over five motorbikes to Cheptulu United Boda Boda Group at Cheptulu grounds in Shiru ward.

In an initiative spearheaded by Vihiga Deputy Governor Dr. Patrick Saisi, the move will go along way in boosting revenue generation for the youths.

Addressing the beneficiaries, Dr. Saisi narrated the genesis of the program, applauding the group for being consistent in their quest for empowerment.

'When these youths visited me at my home about this program,I contacted the Equity bank team who came,trained and have finally delivered the motorbikes to the youths,' said the Deputy Governor.

The County's second in command also advised politicians to engage in such activities, urging youths to form groups, register and open bank accounts in order to access more developmental opportunities.

On her part, Mbale Equity Bank manager Jane Ogutu noted that apart from banking services, Equity Bank also champions for empowerment through the Equity Group Foundation.

Benard Ng'etich who represented Car and General Limited, the main suppliers of the motorbikes stated that their main aim as a company is to change riders into owners.

Cheptulu United Bodaboda group Chairman Hudson Imbudi thanked the Deputy Governor for initiating the project that has seen them acquire motorbikes at cost-effective rates.

The program entails formation of a group, opening a bank account with Equity Bank, depositing Kshs. 15,000 and committing yourself to a daily payment of Kshs. 300 for 12 months.

Sabatia residents have received a major boost following the laying of foundation stone for the construction of County Assembly Speaker's residence at Keveye in Sabatia West ward.

During the event, Vihiga Governor Dr. Wilber Ottichilo stated that the residence will come along with a lot of development projects. 'With the establishment of the speaker's residence here,this area is going to develop more both infrastructure and security wise,' said the Governor.

Dr. Ottichilo also noted that the project will be owned by the residents, urging the site contractor to give first priority to locals when it comes to manpower.

Deputy Governor Dr. Patrick Saisi advised the community to work closely with the contractor and leadership for the success of the project and county at large.

On her part, Vihiga County Assembly Speaker Hasna Mudeizi promised to ensure that work is done to the required standards, reiterating that the residence will not be her personal property.

'Once complete, this house will not be mine but rather play host to County Assembly speakers during and after my tenure,' Mudeizi pointed out.

The one-storeyed building is expected to be completed in six month's time.

Also present were Transport department CECM Prof. Enonda Mwanje, County Assembly leadership led by Deputy Speaker Zachariah Murefu, a host of MCAs and other county leaders.