Youth in Migori County have been urged to take advantage of leadership and economic empowerment forums to enhance their participation in national development and decision-making processes.
Speaking during a meeting with delegates and aspirants for the National Youth Council (NYC) in Migori town, Erick Okelo, Chair of the Young Entrepreneur Association–Migori Chapter, said the forum was designed to prepare and motivate young leaders ahead of the National Youth Congress scheduled for this July.
Okelo noted that the National Youth Council (NYC), a programme under the State Department of Youth Affairs, last held elections in 2014, making the current sensitisation exercise important in equipping youth delegates with a clear understanding of the council’s roles, mandate and governance structure.
He added that the forum also aimed to strengthen leadership and management skills among young people while encouraging them to actively engage their peers on issues affecting the country.
“The National Youth Council provides a structured platform for young people to raise issues affecting them both at county and national level while championing their rights in political and economic spheres,” he said.
Okelo further observed that the NYC plays a critical role in influencing youth-focused policies and programmes at both county and national levels, making it an important platform for youth representation and advocacy.
Migori County Chief Officer for Health, Samuel Atula, who represented the county government, commended ongoing government initiatives aimed at empowering young people, including the NYOTA programme, which has provided seed capital to youth entrepreneurs and created employment opportunities.
Atula encouraged the youth, particularly those expecting to be elected to the National Youth Council, to promote enrolment in County Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions to acquire practical skills in trades such as plumbing, electrical installation, hairdressing and beauty therapy.
“We want to encourage the youth to utilise the available programmes and facilities offered by the government to improve their livelihoods and contribute to the county’s socio-economic development,” he said.
He noted that technical skills development remains key in addressing unemployment and improving self-reliance among young people, especially in a competitive job market.
Lilian Akello, a youth representative from Oruba Ragana Ward in Suna East Sub-County, said the sensitisation forum had helped her better understand the roles she is expected to play in representing fellow youths at the national level.
She, however, stressed that it was time for young people to actively participate in leadership and political spaces, arguing that youth voices must be included in decision-making processes.
“It is time for youth to be included at the negotiation table on matters concerning them. No decisions concerning the youth should be made without the youth being at the centre of the conversation,” she said.
By Teddy Okola
