A new youth group in Kiambu County will start recruiting young people from across the area to offer vocational skills and business training.
The program seeks to reduce poverty and address idleness that has pushed many young people toward drug abuse, especially the consumption of illicit alcohol, which has resulted in multiple fatalities in the region.
Established in Ndumberi under the guidance of Thomas Kimarifounder of Gratom Babz Security Companythe group, called the Kiambu Youth Impact Circle, has created a Sacco to manage its activities and guarantee financial stability.
During a fundraising event to support the Sacco’s formation, which was led by Jubilee Presidential Candidate Dr. Fred Matiang’i, Mr. Kimari stated that the organization will enroll more than 500 young people in the near future for basic training. “Our goal is to empower disadvantaged individuals, and more critically, educated young people who are unemployed and have lost hope,” Kimari stated. “We will establish car wash facilities with modern equipment for these youths. Those with specific expertise will receive support in their particular areas.”
Kimari also rejected claims that he is utilizing the initiative for campaigning for the Kiambu MP position, insisting that his only objective is to engage young people and eliminate the rampant drug abuse throughout the county.
Through Jubilee Deputy Secretary General Zack Kinuthia, Dr. Fred Matiang’i commended the initiative as well-timed. He observed that numerous young people have become frustrated after finishing their education without finding employment or direction. He promised to focus on job creation through skill development instead of a “handout mentality” if elected.
Shem Ranji, the group’s leader, presented their vision and mission.
Ranji further mentioned that unemployment frustrations have caused an increase in depression and documented suicide cases among young peopleproblems the organization aims to resolve by offering a sense of direction and a route to financial self-sufficiency.