Youth from Elgeyo Marakwet studying in various colleges have been urged to avoid engaging in criminal activities; as such involvement could ruin their future.
County Police Commander Peter Mulinge said the police have a database of fingerprints of individuals who have ever been arrested for any criminal offense, which is used during the issuance of certificates of good conduct.
“The certificate of good conduct is mandatory for anyone seeking employment locally or internationally,” said Mulinge. “Once your fingerprints are taken, the record remains in the system unless you are acquitted by a court of law.”
Mulinge, who was addressing tertiary students under the Jukwaa la Wasomi Peace and Security Conversations at the County Commissioner’s boardroom in Iten, commended the youth for their efforts in peacebuilding and positive change within the county.
“Our young people have been instrumental in maintaining peace in the Kerio Valley. Many reformed youth have been volunteering crucial information to the police, which has greatly helped in improving security,” he noted.
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County Gender Coordinator Joseph Amuke reminded the youth to repay their Hustler Fund loans and to exercise responsibility while using social media. He warned that online behavior has become a major consideration for employers when shortlisting candidates.
“Let us avoid abusing people online and ensure we verify any message or post before sharing,” said Amuke.
Acting County Commissioner Julius Maiyo urged the youth to stay away from drug and substance abuse, warning that the habit was on the rise in the county.
He expressed concern over the increased consumption of second-generation liquor, which he said was common among the youth due to its affordability.
“If you find that liquor is being sold cheaply, just know that it is fake and full of chemicals instead of genuine ingredients,” Maiyo cautioned. “But I would advise you to avoid alcohol altogether if you can.”
Amuke further challenged the youth to take the lead in ending female genital mutilation (FGM) by choosing to marry girls who have not undergone the outlawed practice.
The youth, on their part, appealed to the government to create more job opportunities, saying that unemployment had pushed many of them into crime and protests out of frustration.
Maiyo added that the government had equipped Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) centers to provide skills that would enable young people to be self-reliant and create jobs for others.
The youth also called on law enforcement agencies to target the sources of illegal brews rather than punishing consumers, saying that would be a more effective way of eradicating the menace.
By Kimutai Langat
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