Religious and community leaders in the Coast region have launched the ‘Kijana Badilika’ programme aimed at addressing the root causes of challenges facing young people, including insecurity, drug abuse, and involvement in crime.
The initiative is spearheaded by Sheikh Muhammad Abdi Obo, Chairman of the Teachers and Imams Council in the Coast region. It seeks to engage youth through listening sessions, mentorship, and guidance to foster positive change and steer them toward productive paths.
Sheikh Obo said the programme, launched amid growing concerns over youth-related insecurity, is not limited to Ramadan but will continue beyond the holy month. Leaders plan to visit various parts of the Coast to interact directly with young people and understand their challenges.
“This programme aims at identifying the root challenges that the youths are facing so that we can help them,” Sheikh Obo said. “We will be visiting different parts of the Coast region to follow the youths, listen to them, and understand the difficulties they encounter.”
He noted that religious and political leaders are collaborating with government officials to transform the youth and reduce insecurity in the region.
The initiative comes against the backdrop of recent statements by Coast Regional Police Commander Ali Nuno, warning of firm action against criminal elements, including armed gangs using machetes, which have heightened public safety concerns in areas such as Mombasa and Kisauni.
Sheikh Obo emphasized the need for sustained efforts to guide youth away from negative influences and toward productive opportunities, working in partnership with local authorities.
Residents have welcomed the programme. Zacharia Abubakar Abdi from Barsheba, Kisauni, said the initiative fills a long-standing gap in youth guidance.
“For many years, youths had no guidance, which led to street crime, drug abuse, and violent acts using pangas and machetes. With this initiative led by Sheikh Obo, we have seen tangible change, and we promise to remain steadfast,” he said.
Another resident, Ali Bilali, thanked Sheikh Obo and pledged continued community support.
“The transformation journey has begun, and in the coming weeks, we shall reach more youths to listen and guide them,” Bilali said.
Farouk Mumba from Mwandoni also expressed gratitude for the initiative and invited Sheikh Obo to extend mentorship to his area.
“We are grateful for the ‘Vijana Badilika’ Initiative. We welcome Sheikh Obo to Mwandoni to engage our youths. We have laid down pangas and embraced change,” Mumba said.
The programme aims to transform youth lives across the Coast by tackling insecurity, substance abuse, and violent behaviour, fostering a culture of mentorship, responsibility, and community engagement.
By Sitati Reagan
