The Secretary of Administration in the State Department of Youth Affairs Mr. Alan Macharia has appealed to the youth to form self-help groups through which they can improve their livelihoods.
Mr. Macharia encouraged the young people to come together in registered groups so that they can effectively lobby for their interests and act as the conduit for development assistance with which to improve their lives.
The administrator said young people comprise a big proportion of the population and added they should champion their agenda through groups that are recognized by the national and the County governments.
“Through organized groups even the government will listen and address their grievances amicably where economic opportunities are also prioritized,” Mr. Macharia added.
He further reiterated that the National Youth Week being observed across the country ahead of the climax on August 12, 2024 fits well with the Kenya Kwanza government’s Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) that addresses the need for youth empowerment.
The International Youth Day is an annual event observed globally on August 12, in accordance with the United Nation (UN) General Assembly resolution 54/120.
“A week-long series of events which have been held across the country will culminate in the International Youth Day to be celebrated on Monday August 12, in Mombasa County.
The Isiolo forum brought together youth representatives from the region for an engagement through ‘Gumzo na vijana’ initiative.
The event was attended by Mr. Macharia, National Youth Council CEO Margaret Kiogora and Isiolo Deputy County Commissioner Mr. Patrick Musango among others.
Mr. Macharia added that the government recognizes the national youth day, giving them the opportunity to come together and air their issues.
The Chief Executive Officer for the National Youth Council (NYC) Margaret Kiogora encouraged Isiolo youth to share their views on the restructuring of NYC and emphasized the critical role they would play throughout the electoral process.
“Your voices and participation are crucial for shaping a future that reflects the needs and aspirations of our entire community,” Kiogora said.
Isiolo County Executive Committee Member for Education, Youth, Sports, Culture and Social Services Ms. Eileen Kajuju encouraged the youth to take care of their health both physically and mentally.
She reiterated that it is important to take advantage of the courses offered in technical institutions and obtain skills that will enable them to diversify their careers.
“Diversify your careers from many technical courses that are offered at our polytechnics to increase your chances of employment,” Kajuju said.
Kajuju further said the County had set aside Sh50 million for youth empowerment in this financial year’s budget.
The CEC also noted that the county government has established a capitation fund where each student pursuing diverse courses in polytechnics receives Sh15,000 bursaries each term.
She advised the youth to focus on courses that give them an opportunity to advance their careers and better their lives.
The Chief Officer Youth and Sports, Mr. Abduba Diba said that youth contribution to this event shows the cooperation between county, national government and youth in shaping the future of Kenya.
By Kirimi Raphael
