The Kakamega County government has employed 700 security personnel who are expected to guard facilities and installations across the county.
The security personnel were employed under the Kakamega County Youth and Women Empowerment Programme (KCYWEP) after a two-week rigorous refresher training following a one-month paramilitary training held at Kakamega School in 2017.
Speaking during the pass-out parade at Bukhungu Stadium, Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya said those who have been employed were equipped with professional security guarding skills and will perform duties like those of private security guards.
He noted that apart from physical training, the employed cadre were equipped with report writing, public relations and communication skills to serve Kakamega residents in a professional manner.
Governor Oparanya said the programme is one of the county government’s initiatives meant to provide job opportunities for the youth and vulnerable in the society to transform their lives.
“I have great hopes that these young people will remain committed to the purpose of the entire training and with the skills gained during the training, I am optimistic that they are fully empowered and ready to work and support the Kakamega County development agenda,” he said.
“I will ensure my government continues involving the youth in the county programs through proper mechanisms tailored at reducing unemployment cases,” Oparanya added.
The Governor also asked other stakeholders to support his initiatives which, if they partner, will create more opportunities where they can absorb the majority of jobless youth and those wallowing in poverty.
By Margaret Andeso
