NAIROBI, Kenya- Nearly 600 youth groups across Homa Bay County are set to benefit from a new government empowerment programme targeting skills development, enterprise support and sustainable livelihoods.
The programme will provide practical tools and other resources to verified youth groups, with beneficiaries required to identify the specific enterprises they want to pursue before support is allocated.
Representatives of the groups were directed to consult their members and agree on enterprises that can generate sustainable income.
The government will set a maximum allocation for each group, while proposals will be evaluated before equipment and other resources are distributed.
Verification teams will also visit communities where necessary to establish the existence of groups and assess their needs, in a move aimed at ensuring resources reach genuine beneficiaries.
The initiative is designed to support small-scale businesses while promoting technical education and practical training among young people.
The government says the focus is on helping young people establish sustainable livelihoods rather than providing temporary assistance.
The programme will also have a peace and security component, with youth leaders expected to work closely with national government administrators, county officials and security agencies to address challenges affecting young people.
Security agencies have been urged to enforce the law fairly and professionally while treating young people with dignity.
Youth leaders will also be expected to promote discipline, discourage activities that threaten peace and encourage their members to engage in productive ventures.
The government has further stated that political affiliation will not determine access to the empowerment programme.
“This initiative is for every young person in Homa Bay. Political differences must never divide our youth or prevent them from benefiting from development opportunities,” the government said.
The programme will prioritise transparency, accountability and coordination, with authorities seeking to ensure resources reach verified groups and deliver lasting economic benefits.
The Homa Bay meeting also discussed countywide organisation and public participation, including identifying gaps from the 2022 electoral figures and strengthening mobilisation across constituencies.
The discussions brought together youth representatives alongside national and county government officials and political leaders, including Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, Kasipul MP Boyd Were, Homa Bay Woman Representative Joyce Bensuda, Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma and Nyanza Regional Commissioner Onesmus Kyatha.
