Mombasa: Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Cabinet Secretary (CS), Hassan Joho, has called upon youth in the region, particularly those in Mombasa and Kwale, to shun criminal activities lest they ruin their future. The sentiments come in the wake of a rise in juvenile gangs terrorizing residents even in broad daylight.
According to Kenya News Agency, speaking during the Idd-ul-Fitr prayer at the Tononoka grounds in Mombasa, CS Joho stated that the youth phase is fleeting, and if the young do not make good use of their vitality, they will rue their choices later in life. He emphasized that "life never forgets-just like the internet," urging the youth to make decisions that will positively shape their future.
CS Joho also defended the creation of new posts of Principal Secretaries (PSs), emphasizing the importance of representation in leadership. He stated that with the growing population, it is crucial for everyone to feel represented, advocating for a paradigm shift to end the politics of exclusion and unite Kenyans.
During the event, the CS prayed for the acceptance of good acts of worship during the Holy Month of Ramadhan and called for unity and peaceful coexistence among all communities. He encouraged Muslims to remember the needy in society, as highlighted in the teachings of the Holy Qur'an.
Mombasa County Assembly Speaker, Aharub Khatri, encouraged Muslims to fast the optional six days after the Holy Month of Ramadhan, highlighting its spiritual rewards. Residents of Mombasa praised the County Security and Intelligence Committee for enhancing security during Ramadhan, particularly lauding County Commissioner Mohamed Noor for his efforts.
Community members, such as Ali Adow, advised youth to seek employment opportunities, even in menial jobs, to avoid engaging in criminal activities. Abdulrahman Yusuf, a resident of Tononoka, urged leaders to educate the community on the consequences of lawlessness.