BARINGO, Kenya — Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya has challenged young people in Baringo County to harness their musical talents to promote peace, patriotism and national unity, saying the creative arts remain a powerful force for social transformation and community cohesion.
Speaking during an engagement with youth in Eldume, Baringo County, Tuya reaffirmed the government’s commitment to empowering young people as partners in fostering peaceful, secure and prosperous communities.
She said the government continues to invest in the talents, creativity and leadership of young people to strengthen community resilience while creating opportunities for them to become positive agents of change.
The Cabinet Secretary noted that music, in particular, possesses a unique ability to shape attitudes, inspire hope and unite communities across social and cultural divides.
She encouraged aspiring musicians to produce songs that promote peaceful coexistence, responsible citizenship, patriotism and resilience against harmful influences, saying their voices have the potential to inspire meaningful societal change.
“The creative arts, particularly music, have emerged as powerful tools for inspiring social transformation, promoting peaceful coexistence and amplifying messages that foster national cohesion,” Tuya said.
She observed that artistic expression extends beyond entertainment, describing it as a catalyst for dialogue, reconciliation and stronger community cohesion.
Tuya urged young people to embrace their creativity as an instrument for promoting harmony, mutual respect and understanding within society.
Calls for Environmental Conservation
Beyond youth empowerment, the Defence Cabinet Secretary called on residents to play an active role in protecting the region’s natural resources, particularly Lake Baringo and Lake Bogoria.
She described the two lakes as nationally significant ecosystems that support biodiversity, tourism, livelihoods and regional economic development.
Tuya said conserving the lakes is essential for enhancing climate resilience, protecting Kenya’s natural heritage and sustaining the livelihoods of communities that depend on the water bodies.
She encouraged local communities to embrace responsible environmental practices and participate in conservation initiatives to safeguard the ecosystems for future generations.
Integrated Peacebuilding Approach
According to Tuya, sustainable peace is best achieved through a holistic approach that combines youth empowerment, environmental stewardship and active community participation.
She said encouraging young people to use their talents to inspire positive social change while protecting critical natural resources contributes to building resilient communities and advancing sustainable development.
