By L, KNA
The Principal Secretary for Youth Affairs and Creative Economy, Mr Fikirini Jacob, has called on young Kenyans to seize the opportunities created by devolution and transform policy into tangible benefits such as job creation, innovation, and grassroots economic empowerment.
Speaking during the opening of the second Youth Devolution Festival in Kajiado, Mr. Fikirini stressed that youth must be at the center of actualizing devolution by participating in governance, local development, and enterprise.
“This festival represents a shift taking youth from the sidelines to the centre of decision-making. Devolution must move beyond paper to become an opportunity, and young people are the bridge to that transformation,” he said.
The PS encouraged the youth to explore public procurement opportunities, tap into government innovation funds, and enroll in technical and vocational training programs (TVETs) to gain skills aligned with the evolving job market.
The annual three-day festival, hosted in Kajiado for the first time, brought together young people from across Kenya to deliberate on innovation, governance, and the role of youth in shaping devolved policies. It was organized in collaboration with the Kajiado County Government, Huduma Centre Kajiado, Kenya Water for Health Organization (KWAHO), Kajiado Youth Wash Parliament, and the Kajiado County Youth Alliance.
Governor Joseph Ole Lenku applauded the initiative, terming it a testament to youth leadership despite resource constraints.
“I embraced the idea when it was brought to me, because the youth are not just the future, they are the now. If we do not include them, we delay national progress,” Lenku said.
He credited devolution with transforming service delivery, particularly in healthcare, citing Mandera County’s ability to conduct cesarean deliveries in local facilities, which was previously unthinkable in remote areas.
“Devolution is the greatest gain of the 2010 Constitution. It has brought dignity, access, and opportunities to the grassroots,” said the governor.
Lenku, however, cautioned against corruption and attempts to discredit devolution. He challenged young people to register as voters and push for leadership change at the ballot.
“If we, your fathers, failed by going tribal and ignoring technology, then you must correct that by electing leaders who understand your needs. Don’t just wait for power, go for it,” he urged.
Themed “From Periphery to the Centre: Turning Policy into Tangible Opportunities,” the festival promotes civic technology, intergenerational dialogue, and local innovation. Kajiado becomes the second county to host the event after last year’s inaugural edition in Kakamega.