Teso North MP Oku Kaunya has urged young people in Busia County to remain vigilant and resist attempts by politicians seeking to use them to incite violence and disrupt peace.
Speaking during the distribution of Empowerment Fund proceeds to beneficiary groups at NYS Achiya Echakara Technical Institute, Kaunya condemned leaders who prey on unemployed youth by exploiting their desperation for political expediency.
He said leaders have a responsibility to create opportunities that empower young people to become self-reliant and economically independent rather than manipulating them for selfish political agendas.
Kaunya warned that when leaders neglect their constituents, especially the youth, they become vulnerable to criminal activities, goonism, and lawlessness, threatening peace, unity, and even resulting in the loss of lives.
He challenged young people to reject political manipulation and instead channel their energy into government and community empowerment programmes designed to improve their livelihoods.
Kaunya reaffirmed his commitment to partnering with other leaders and institutions to create more opportunities for residents across the constituency.
“We are planning to bring together more than 800 young people for mentorship so they can confidently venture into various business activities and improve their livelihoods,” he said.
A total of Sh5.7 million was raised during the economic empowerment fundraiser held at the institute on June 6, 2026.
The initiative marked the second empowerment programme in the constituency, following a successful edition held last year that targeted women engaged in small businesses that raised Sh6.7 million.
The funds will support various self-help groups across the constituency, enabling them to expand and strengthen their businesses.
Kaunya encouraged beneficiary groups to join Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies (SACCOs) and other cooperative societies to strengthen their savings, access affordable credit, and benefit from dividends and other cooperative services.
Amagoro Traders Chairperson Carol Clad Bilal welcomed the empowerment programmes spearheaded by like-minded leaders, saying such initiatives have the potential to transform livelihoods.
She called on leaders and development partners to provide sustained support to help communities break free from cycles of poverty.
A beneficiary, Daniel Omae, a boda boda rider and Treasurer of the Bodaboda Riders SACCO in Malaba, said the group would channel the funds into its table banking programme to strengthen members’ savings and provide financial support to those in need.
“We will use the funds through our table banking initiative so that members who require financial assistance can access it when the need arises,” Omae said.
By Elizabeth Achieng
