- Makueni County has encouraged young people to actively participate in government programmes aimed at creating jobs and improving livelihoods.
- More than 2,200 youths benefited from the Ajira kwa Vijana programme implemented across five wards in the county.
- Leaders say the initiative not only provides income but also helps keep young people away from crime and other social vices.
Makueni County Executive Committee Member (ECM) for Gender, Youth, Sports, Children and Social Services Sebastian Kyoni has assured young people that the county government will continue implementing youth empowerment programmes that create employment opportunities while improving local infrastructure and the environment.
He said such programmes help keep youths engaged and reduce their exposure to social vices and conflict with the law.
Speaking at Nguu Masumba Ward during the conclusion of the Ajira kwa Vijana programme, Kyoni said the ward was the fifth and final beneficiary after similar activities were conducted in Wote-Nziu, Makindu, Nguumo and Kikumbulyu North wards.
The county received a total allocation of KSh8 million for the programme, benefiting more than 2,200 casual workers across the five wards.
“Here in Nguu Masumba Ward, a total of 263 casual workers have been engaged under a KSh1 million allocation to undertake bush clearing, drainage maintenance and environmental improvement activities,” said Kyoni.
Improving livelihoods
Nguu Masumba Ward became the fifth and final ward to benefit from the Ajira kwa Vijana programme, successfully concluding the countywide initiative rolled out by the Makueni County Government.
The programme focused on environmental conservation and infrastructure improvement while creating short-term employment opportunities for young people.
Area MCA Daniel Musau called upon residents to turn up in large numbers and participate in public participation forums to support the continuity and expansion of such development programmes.
He said community involvement is critical in shaping county development priorities and ensuring that programmes address local needs.
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The leaders expressed optimism that continued investment in youth empowerment initiatives would contribute to economic growth, environmental sustainability and social stability across the county.
By Lydia Ngoolo
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