MOMBASA, Kenya — The Financial Inclusion Fund, popularly known as the Hustler Fund, has launched a new business development programme aimed at helping borrowers with strong repayment records expand their enterprises through training, financial literacy and mentorship.
Dubbed Tukuze Hub, the initiative targets entrepreneurs who have consistently repaid their Hustler Fund loans, offering them access to business development support designed to improve enterprise growth and long-term sustainability.
The programme is being implemented in partnership with Strathmore University and the African Management Institute (AMI), institutions that specialise in entrepreneurship training and enterprise development.
Speaking during a Hustler Fund Town Hall meeting in Mombasa, the Fund’s Chief Executive Officer, represented by Geoffrey Ochande, said the initiative marks a shift from focusing solely on credit access to strengthening the capacity of small businesses.
“The success of the Hustler Fund should not only be measured by the amount of money disbursed but also by the positive impact it has on people’s businesses and livelihoods,” Ochande said.
He encouraged beneficiaries to borrow responsibly, invest in productive ventures, maintain a culture of saving and honour their loan repayment obligations.
Selected beneficiaries are being identified through their repayment history and invited for interviews to confirm their eligibility before joining the programme.
According to the Fund, participants will receive training in financial management, business planning and enterprise growth while also being linked to opportunities that can help expand their businesses.
Officials said the initiative seeks to reward responsible borrowing while strengthening financial inclusion among Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
Representatives from Strathmore University and the African Management Institute said capacity building remains critical to the success of small businesses, noting that many enterprises struggle not because of limited access to finance alone but also because of gaps in business management skills.
They said entrepreneurs require practical training in financial management, record keeping and sustainable business practices to improve resilience and compete effectively.
The launch comes as the government continues to position the Hustler Fund as a key vehicle for expanding financial inclusion by providing affordable credit to individuals and small businesses that have historically had limited access to formal financial services.
