The government, through the National Hygiene Programme, is set to recruit 4,000 youths from informal sectors of Kitale town to cushion them from effects of corona virus.
Speaking during the launching of the programme at the county commissioner’s office in Kitale Wednesday, Trans nzoia west deputy county commissioner Abdullahi Khalif said the programme dubbed ‘kazi mtaani’ will run for six months.
“The programme targets residents of informal settlement who are above 18 years of age and unable to find work due to the disruption of COVID-19 affecting their normal economic activities,” he said.
Khalif added that the programme will collaborate with the county government to ensure there is sustainability of service delivery in informal settlements.
The initiative will work on garbage collection, fumigation and disinfection of the town, bush clearing, construction of public and social facilities and street cleaning.
Trans nzoia CEC Environment and Water Andrew Musungu said that the programme will bring an element of social empowerment and economic stimulus during this pandemic.
“Most of the youth have been affected by Covid-19 and this has deteriorated the economy, this programme will help them pick up their economic status and move on,” he said.
Mr. Musungu added that hygiene was key in the war against Covid-19 and therefore the programme will ensure that cleanliness of the town is maintained.
The youths will be trained for two days and will earn a daily wage of Sh 450
The Former National Youth Service (NYS) graduates who are at home will be recruited as supervisors in the programme as they already have supervisory skills.
By Pauline Ikanda