The County Government of Kiambu has launched Ksh800 million fund aimed at supporting young people in the digital technology, entrepreneurship, and creative sectors.
Speaking during County Youth Day celebrations at the county headquarters, Governor Kimani Wamatangi announced that the initiative would see Ksh300 million allocated by the county government, while Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) would contribute Ksh500 million under a public-private partnership.
According to Governor Wamatangi, the fund is intended to provide capital, training, and market access to help tackle youth unemployment.
“We cannot afford to ignore the challenges facing our young people. This fund will empower them to transform their ideas into viable enterprises,” Wamatangi said.
The governor confirmed that the county’s contribution would be factored into the upcoming supplementary budget to ensure immediate access for beneficiaries. “We are committed to ensuring these funds are made available without delay,” he stated.
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During the event, local youth showcased innovative digital applications in areas, such as education, waste management, and agriculture. The governor commended their ingenuity and directed county officials to begin engaging these innovators to integrate their solutions into county services, particularly in Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE), agriculture, and solid waste management.
“I’ve seen impressive ideas today. With the right support, these young innovators will thrive. That is what my administration intends to offer,” he said.
County Executive Committee (CEC) Member for Youth and Sports, Osman Korar, also urged support for the fast-tracking of county youth and sports policies. He revealed that a draft policy document is ready and awaiting executive review.
“As a department, we propose the reintroduction of a dedicated Youth Fund. We’ve completed a feasibility study and secured a budget allocation. The goal is to empower our youth to become job creators, not job seekers,” said Korar.
By Juma Ndigo
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