Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti has called on leaders across the country to stop sidelining the youth in national discourse and policy-making, emphasizing the need to prioritize their concerns and aspirations.
Speaking during a burial ceremony in Mitaboni, the governor pointed out that young people constitute approximately 75 percent of Kenya’s population, describing them as a vital pillar in the country’s development and future.
“The youth make up three-quarters of the population, if not more,” said Governor Wavinya. “When I served as Minister for Youth and Sports, I kept emphasizing that their numbers are growing. They are more than us, and both levels of government must go back to the drawing board to find sustainable solutions for them.”
She stressed the need for stronger collaboration between the national and county governments to create long-term employment opportunities that would give the youth what she termed “a fair share of the national cake.”
Wavinya also expressed concern over rising youth unemployment, warning that the lack of opportunities continues to push many young people into drugs and other destructive behaviors.
Highlighting her administration’s initiatives, the governor said programs such as the Machakos Youth Service are already providing skills training, jobs, and mentorship to hundreds of young people across the county.
She further noted that the youth will play a significant role in shaping the outcome of the next general elections, urging leaders to engage them meaningfully and address their needs.
Governor Wavinya was accompanied by several leaders, including former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko and former Machakos Town MP Victor Munyaka, among others.
