Nyandarua County Commissioner Amos Mariba has called on youths to keep peace during this campaign period and not to be misused by politicians in causing chaos.
While calling for the youths to enlist for the ongoing phase III of the National Hygiene Programme (Kazi Mtaani), Mariba said the programme was meant to cushion them against effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.
About 7,000 youths from vulnerable families in Nyandarua County will benefit from the Kazi Mtaani Programme in a bid to keep them economically afloat as the country recovers from the pandemic.
“We received about 12, 000 online applications and we still have hundreds who have turned up in search of the opportunity to enable them fend for their families. We are involving our administrators in venting them, with first priority being given to youths from vulnerable families and persons with disabilities,” added Mariba.
The team that will be divided into two cohorts will serve in public places for three months, with only one beneficiary being selected per family.
“The County Implementation Committee that is in place will continue offering advice to unlock any bottle necks,” said the administrator, adding that those involved in the works would be paid Sh450, with their supervisors and youth champions receiving Sh505 per day.
While urging the youths to keep off drug and substance abuse, Nyandarua Central DCC George Matundura said the programme would curb any form of violence and therefore foster peace around the general election.
County Director of Housing Mr. Ezekiel Muiruri noted that vulnerable families would be given priority with one beneficiary per family getting an opportunity.
“Those benefiting from cash transfer programme will not be given a chance but those with disability will get a chance on first priority basis, with the age limit being waived,” he said.
“Persons who also served in phase II and were diligent in their service will also get first priority,” said Muiruri, urging the youths to be diligent in their service.
The kazi mtaani youths called on the government to increase the amounts payable to them citing high food prices.
“We are going hungry and yet we have the will to work. The current wages cannot sustain us as the food is costly and work is hard to come by,” noted Grace Wangari who was seeking an opportunity to serve in Kaimbaga ward.
Most youths who had resorted to farm work decried dwindling opportunities as the county remained dry for the third week in a row. The construction sector has also witnessed a dwindle in employment opportunities.
By Anne Sabuni
