Youth Empowerment Forum at Masinde Muliro University

Kakamega Hosts Major Youth Leadership Forum as County Unveils New Empowerment Programs
Hundreds of enthusiastic youth gathered at Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) over the weekend for the Kakamega County Youth Leadership Dialogue Forum, an event themed Building Bridges, Inspiring Futures.
The forum served as a platform for young people, policymakers, and development partners to openly discuss pathways for economic empowerment, leadership development, and sustainable job creation.
County Government Announces New Opportunities for Youth
Governor Fernandes Barasa lauded the impact of the county’s flagship Climate Workx programme, which has enabled young people to earn income while participating in environmental restoration efforts. He revealed that the next phase of the programme will begin in September.
In a significant announcement, the governor confirmed plans to establish a textile industry in Lugari, a move expected to open hundreds of new employment opportunities for unemployed youth across Kakamega.
We will bring on board the second cohort of the Climate Workx programme in September and unveil a textile industry in Lugari to offer more opportunities to unemployed youth across the county,
— Governor Fernandes Barasa.
National Government Reaffirms Commitment to Youth-Friendly Policies
Principal Secretary for Youth Affairs and Creative Economy, Fikirini Jacobs, acknowledged the increasing challenges facing young people, including limited job prospects and the high cost of living. He assured the youth that the government is committed to creating a supportive environment for growth.
Jacobs highlighted that the 2025 Finance Bill was revised to shield young people from additional taxes and emphasized the potential of agriculture as a significant source of employment for Kenya’s growing youth population.