Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti has launched the Machakos Youth Empowerment Programme, known as the Machakos Youth Service. The initiative aims to equip young people with essential life skills, technical abilities, and entrepreneurial training to better navigate the challenges of the dynamic 21st century.
The Governor inaugurated the first cohort of 1,000 youths at the Machakos Youth Service centre, located at the Agricultural Training Centre in Machakos.
The County Government has recently built two fully equipped ‘Barracks’ for male and female recruits, as well as a dining hall and washrooms to accommodate them.
The youths, drawn from the 40 wards in the County, will be accommodated at the MYS Centre for 21 days. After this period, they will proceed to five Tertiary and Vocational Training Institutions (TVET) within the County, where they will acquire additional skills and graduate after four months.
Subsequently, the Governor says the youths will be provided with capital to start their own businesses, through a partnership between the County Government of Machakos and the Kenya Commercial Bank.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, Governor Ndeti stated that the programme will intake two cohorts of 1,000 youths each financial year.
She noted that the youth empowerment programme aims to help young people avoid exploitation by politicians during election periods.
“Youth empowerment is not about giving our children handouts in every election cycle. It is not about mobilizing them to cause chaos. Youth empowerment is about equipping our children with the skills and knowledge that will set them on career paths leading to success in life,” said Governor Wavinya.
Machakos County Commissioner Josephine Ouko noted that the National Youth Service cannot accommodate everyone, and that the MYS will help fill this gap.
She stated that recruits will learn life-transforming skills at the Boot Camp, which are not typically taught in formal institutions.
“This will help you build patriotism and become the best in whatever you do while serving your country, Kenya. I urge other governors to emulate,” said Ouko.
Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi encouraged other development partners to support the County in rolling out such programmes.
Peace Mwikali, one of the recruits, thanked the governor for the transformative programme, noting that access to education beyond secondary school has been limited for many disadvantaged residents.
The County Government is providing the youths with uniforms, hot meals, and personal items such as tissue paper and soap free of charge while they are at the MYS.