Kajiado north: The government is ready to give a listening ear to the youth, Kajiado North Deputy County Commissioner Yusuf Mohammed has said. Speaking during a forum to mark this year's International Youth Day theme, 'Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond', the DCC noted that the voice of the youth is important, as they can contribute and be part of building this nation.
According to Kenya News Agency, Yusuf unveiled the Voice of the Kenyan Foundation, a convener body for national intergenerational dialogue that will be engaging in meetings across Kajiado between the government, youth, parents, and professionals. He emphasized that the youth can voice their concerns and be heard without resorting to chaos. "As leaders, we have come together, ready to listen to our youth and partner with them to foster peace. We can agree to disagree but walk and work together in an amicable environment," the DCC remarked.
The Kajiado North Sub-County Administrator Samuel Muchiri encouraged youth groups in the area to come together and register as self-help groups to avoid missing out on opportunities set for the youth. He urged them to think about their personal growth and focus on utilizing opportunities and being agents of peace. Muchiri also announced that the upcoming International Peace Day will be commemorated in the sub-county on September 21, with plans to bring thousands of youths together to showcase various talents.
Daniel Kwesi, coordinator of the Voice of Kenya Foundation, stated that their journey will begin in Kajiado North, where they will convene meetings with the youth and other stakeholders to promote peace. He highlighted that young people are the driving force of today and emphasized the importance of making peace rather than waiting for peacekeepers.
Martin Wafula, a youth leader in Maasai Lodge Road in Ongata Rongai, expressed the youth's readiness for dialogue and asked for inclusion in government, church, and parental plans and discussions. He highlighted unemployment as a significant challenge for the youth, urging leaders to include them in their programs.
Raphael Mbulu, Community Division chair and Nyumba Kumi coordinator, encouraged the youth to partner with them to address issues like drug abuse and petty crimes. Nyambura Kigera from the National Authority for Campaign against Drug Abuse (NACADA) called on the youth not to lose hope and to avoid alcohol and substance abuse. She mentioned forums across the sub-county offering services related to drug and alcohol abuse, mental wellness, and rehabilitation referrals.
Meanwhile, DCC Yusuf had earlier met with the Apostolic Faith Church, Ngong, to plan for an upcoming healing conference to be held in October. During the meeting hosted by Apostle John Kimani, the DCC thanked the clergy and city leaders for their role in promoting peace in the sub-county. He reiterated their crucial role in furthering peace efforts and assured them of the government's full support for their peace initiatives.