Nanyuki: As Kenyans marked the 62nd Madaraka Day, youth in Nanyuki, Laikipia County, called on the government to create employment opportunities. Speaking during the celebrations attended by hundreds of residents, they highlighted that idleness among young people was leading to drug and substance abuse. "Lack of jobs among the youth, which the majority are graduates, results in engaging in narcotics," said Whitney Njoki, a youth representative in Nanyuki.
According to Kenya News Agency, there was also a call for the inclusion of marginalized groups in decision-making processes to empower them and prevent exclusion. Valentine Kiraita, a representative of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Laikipia, emphasized that PWDs were sometimes left out of key discussions. "When the government is planning anything, PWDs need to be part of decision-making aimed at empowering them, including jobs," said Kiraita.
Laikipia East Deputy County Commissioner Patrick Muli, after delivering the president's speech, urged residents to enroll with the Social Health Authority (SHA) to protect themselves during illnesses. He also encouraged residents to register with affordable housing programs to benefit from the government's efforts to uplift low-income earners by providing decent housing. Additionally, the administrator advised the youth on the responsible use of social media.
Residents were informed about government services, including the Inua Jamii initiative, civil registration, and the dangers of narcotics use, among others.