Over 300 youths from Kitui West, including university students, college students, and unemployed graduates, gathered at a hotel in Kabati to establish the Kitui West Youth Parliament. This initiative aims to devise lasting solutions to the challenges faced by their peers and advocate for greater youth inclusion in local employment opportunities.
The formation of the youth parliament was spearheaded by Dr. Vincent Munyoki, the founder of the Vincent Munyoki Foundation and a prominent youth leader in the region. Speaking exclusively to Hopkin Reporter, Dr. Munyoki emphasized the critical need for such an initiative, highlighting that the lack of support and opportunities has led to widespread unemployment and depression among the youth. He stressed the importance of youths creating happiness for those who are depressed and encouraged a ratio of one youth creating employment opportunities for four others.
Dr. Munyoki also committed to supporting and empowering the youth by creating income opportunities, with a particular focus on online jobs. He noted that leveraging the digital economy could provide a sustainable solution to the high unemployment rates in the constituency. By fostering digital skills and promoting online job opportunities, Dr. Munyoki believes that young people can achieve financial independence and contribute positively to their community.
Hon. Benjamin Mulandi, the youthful MCA for Mutonguni, also attended the event and pledged to push for a Youth Bill to establish a policy framework for youth empowerment. He noted that Kitui County boasts some of the youngest MCAs and the speaker, highlighting the region’s commitment to youth leadership. This legislative support aims to provide a structured approach to addressing the challenges faced by young people and ensuring their active participation in the county’s development.
The youth parliament comprises representatives from all wards in the Kitui West constituency, including Kauwi, Matinyani, Mutonguni, and Kithumula kwa Mutonga, with each ward having two representatives, one man and one woman. This structure ensures that all areas of the constituency have a voice in addressing youth issues and promoting inclusive development.
Winnie Muinda, one of the participants, expressed her gratitude to Dr. Munyoki for initiating the youth parliament. She praised the effort for bringing together youths to discuss and address their common challenges. Muinda highlighted the importance of such gatherings in fostering a sense of unity and purpose among young people, enabling them to collectively brainstorm and implement effective strategies to overcome their obstacles.
The establishment of the Kitui West Youth Parliament marks a significant step towards empowering the youth in the region. By creating a dedicated forum for addressing their issues and advocating for their inclusion in the job market, the parliament aims to drive meaningful change. The initiative not only promises to uplift the youth but also to make a broader impact on the community by fostering a generation of empowered and proactive individuals.
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