The Kiambu County Commissioner’s office recently hosted a youth empowerment programme at the Kiambu National Polytechnic, bringing together young people from across the region. The event provided a platform for government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and private entities to engage with youths on available opportunities, challenges facing the young population, and practical pathways to economic independence. This initiative aimed to equip young people with information and linkages to navigate a competitive job market.
Assistant County Commissioner Grace Wairimu, representing the County Commissioner, expressed her delight in seeing young people come together to learn about government structures and opportunities. She urged the participants to embrace these structures, work on self-improvement, and use the knowledge gained to positively impact their communities. Wairimu emphasized the importance of self-employment, citing the current challenges in securing formal government jobs.
Assistant County Commissioner Caleb Nyongesa highlighted the role of National Government Administrative Officers in enforcing laws and facilitating access to essential services. He also stressed the importance of collective action among youths, noting that it is easier to access grants and other opportunities when registered as a group. Nyongesa encouraged young people to work together to rise and take advantage of available opportunities.
Several government institutions and partners participated in the programme, providing information on various opportunities. The National Government Affirmative Action Fund explained procedures for accessing bursaries and grants. Officials from the Kenya Industrial Estates and the Micro and Small Enterprises Authority highlighted opportunities in the affordable housing programme and the value of National Industrial Training Authority certificates.
Participants were also informed about the government’s Jobs for Kenyan Youths and Enterprise Transformation initiative, funded by the World Bank, which aims to expand skills development and enterprise support. The Kenya Red Cross Society and private entities, such as Tabor, shared information on available programmes. The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse sensitized youths on the dangers of counterfeit and illicit drugs.
Representatives from the Youth Fund and various mental health organizations addressed the gathering, underscoring the need for holistic support systems that combine economic empowerment with psychosocial wellbeing. The programme emphasized the National Government’s commitment to equipping young people with information and linkages to navigate a competitive job market.
The event concluded with calls for participants to cascade the information to their peers in the wards and villages, so that more young people can benefit. Officials reiterated that sustained engagement, registration of youth groups, and continuous self-development remain critical for unlocking the numerous opportunities presented by both public and private sector partners.
Key points
- The programme aimed to bridge the gap between policy intentions and practical access for youths at the grassroots.
- The government’s Jobs for Kenyan Youths and Enterprise Transformation initiative aims to expand skills development and enterprise support.
- The programme emphasized the importance of self-employment and collective action among youths.
