BY SHABAN OMAR
Youth in Kwale County have been encouraged to take advantage of government empowerment programs and job opportunities to enhance their livelihoods and contribute to regional development.
Speaking at an empowerment forum in Mwereni, Lunga-Lunga Youth Community-Based Organization (CBO) Director Ibrahim Shaban said that various government initiatives are available to help young people achieve economic independence and reduce dependency.
He urged the youth to actively seek information about the programs and apply for opportunities that align with their skills and interests.
“There are numerous opportunities that young people can leverage to transform their lives,” he said.
Shaban added that by engaging in productive activities, the youth can also play a crucial role in promoting peace and security within their communities.
He further called on local leaders and organizations to collaborate in raising awareness about economic and social empowerment programs to ensure more young people benefit..
According to Shaban, lack of awareness remains a major barrier, preventing many from benefiting from government and private sector initiatives designed to uplift them.
The government has rolled out several programs targeting young people, including Uwezo Fund, Ajira Digital, which provides online job opportunities and the newly launched Nyota program that offers training and funding for business startups.
Shaban also called on the youth to stay away from criminal activities and drug abuse, adding that engagement in productive ventures not only improves individual livelihoods but also contributes to a safer society.
The officer noted that many young people struggle to access loans due to limited knowledge about financial requirements, hence the need for training to bridge the gap.
He said that financial literacy is crucial in helping the youth understand loan application processes, proper management of funds, and strategies for sustaining their businesses.
Shaban added that the initiative is part of the CBO’s broader effort to create self-employment opportunities, reduce dependency, and enhance the resilience of young people in the region.
He said through the Kujenga Amani Project, the CBO aims to empower youth to start and grow sustainable businesses, ultimately improving their economic well-being.
A youth, Rashid Dzombo, acknowledged that many young people have been reluctant to take advantage of various opportunities due to a lack of information.
He emphasized the need for better awareness campaigns to educate the youth about available empowerment programs and financial support.
Dzombo noted that misinformation and fear of bureaucratic processes have discouraged many from applying for government and private sector initiatives designed to uplift them.
He urged community leaders, government agencies, and organizations to enhance outreach efforts and ensure that information reaches the grassroots level.
“We have seen many young people struggle with unemployment, yet there are programs that could help them if only they had access to the right information,” he said.
He added that More awareness forums, mentorship sessions, and training workshops will go a long way in bridging the gap.
Dzombo further called on the youth to take personal responsibility by seeking information, attending empowerment forums, and networking with individuals who can guide them in making informed decisions.
His sentiments were echoed by other youth Masika Athman who urged their peers to embrace available opportunities and work towards self-reliance rather than waiting for white-collar jobs.
She hailed the empowerment programs initiated by the Lunga-Lunga Youth CBO adding that such initiatives play a crucial role in informing young people about various beneficial opportunities available to them.
She said that many youths remain unaware of government and private sector programs designed to support them, making community-based initiatives essential in bridging this knowledge gap.
“Through these empowerment programs, we get to learn about opportunities that can help us improve our lives,” she said.
