Youth in Tharaka Nithi County are calling on the government to fast-track the establishment of digital hubs in every ward and create more opportunities for meaningful participation in national dialogue as part of broader efforts to empower the country’s growing youth population.
Led by Christine Gatiria while speaking during a youth empowerment forum held at Mpukoni, Magumoni Ward, the young people underscored the need for practical investment in youth development through digital literacy, access to technology, and leadership inclusion.
“Let us be practical. We need digital hubs with computers and internet access at the ward level. Such centers will equip our youth with digital skills that are now critical in the job market,” said Gatiria.
She noted that empowerment begins with education, particularly in soft skills, and called on leaders to engage youth directly to understand their challenges and potential.
“Youth should be educated on how to present themselves for job opportunities. But beyond that, we must be listened to. Dialogue with youth is essential not just locally, but also at the international level,” she added.
The forum attracted youth leaders and community members from across Magumoni Ward, who expressed optimism about ongoing training programmes but urged the government to expand them and follow through on promises.
Derick Gitonga, another youth leader at the event, called for structured inclusion of young people in national conversations, especially in policy-making forums.
“We are requesting that the President delegates dialogue with the youth to the Deputy President or other senior government officials. The youth must be involved in national development discussions to ensure their needs are captured in government planning,” said Gitonga.
He added that young people across the country were ready to offer solutions but often lacked platforms to do so.
“Many youth feel left out. We want a seat at the table, not just as beneficiaries but as equal partners in shaping the nation’s future,” Gitonga remarked.
Several participants shared experiences of being trained in soft skills, such as professional communication, teamwork, and entrepreneurship, urging both national and county governments to expand the reach of such programmes.
“Access to empowerment centers with computers and free Wi-Fi would be a game-changer for us. Such spaces would help us innovate, research, and apply for jobs,” one participant said.
They urged leaders to go to the grassroots, listen to the youth, and implement inclusive programmes that reflect the real needs of the population.
They said they were hopeful that their voices would be heard and that the government would match its promises with tangible action on youth empowerment and inclusion.
By Dickson Mwiti and Christine Ngitori
