The Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Youth Affairs, Sports and The Arts, Mr. Ababu Namwamba, has taken over the Youth docket previously under the Ministry of ICT, Innovation and Youth Affairs.
Speaking at the ceremony held at Kencom House, the CS stated that he was happy to be a servant of the youth and to build together with them in one accord. “We as a country have to maximize on the youth bulge by bringing them to the table, listening to them, and engaging their talents,” said Namwamba.
The CS implored all heads of departments present to band together and be in one collective voice for the young people of Kenya.
“I believe in the African proverb; if you want to go fast, go alone but if you want to go far, go with others. For this reason, I will have an open door policy applied to anyone who will want to come in and have a word with me,” said Namwamba.
He disclosed that the government will work to expand the creative industry and make it a viable employment avenue for the youth.
“The president recently reiterated his commitment to the hustler fund that will support youth entrepreneurship, but more than that, we will also help young people in the creative industry to earn a living in their respective fields of interest,” noted Namwamba.
The CS noted that his appointment to man the youth docket is the second time coming, having also been in charge of the youth docket during the Kibaki administration. “My first time working with the youth was like a smooth walk in the park and this time round will be no different,” he said.
Outgoing Principal Secretary (PS) of the State Department for Youth Affairs Mr. Charles Sunkuli said the Ministry had unlimited opportunities for the youth and he would love it if the new CS built and expanded further on their recent programs.
“Programs like mbele na biz and future bora have advanced grants for the youth and provided vital training for those in underserved areas respectively,” said Sunkuli.
Outgoing Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS), Ministry of ICT, Innovation and youth affairs, Nadia Ahmed Abdalla welcomed CS Namwamba and pledged to cooperate with the CS to ensure a smooth transition.
By Mike Mulinge
