Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti has unveiled an ambitious initiative aimed at equipping the youth with essential skills to thrive in the 21st century. Dubbed the Machakos Youth Service (MYS), the program is designed to offer life skills, technical training, and entrepreneurial education to young people across the county.
Speaking during the launch at the Agricultural Training Centre in Machakos, Governor Ndeti inaugurated the first cohort of 1,000 youths. The participants, drawn from the county’s 40 wards, will undergo a 21-day residential boot camp at the MYS Centre. The facility, which features newly built male and female dormitories, a dining hall, and washrooms, is fully equipped to accommodate the recruits.
Following the boot camp, participants will proceed to five Tertiary and Vocational Training Institutions (TVETs) within the county. Over a four-month training period, they will acquire additional skills before graduating. To help kick-start their entrepreneurial journeys, the graduates will receive capital through a partnership between the County Government of Machakos and Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB).
Governor Ndeti emphasized the transformative vision behind the program, stating, “Youth empowerment is not about giving our children handouts in every election cycle. It is not about mobilizing them to cause chaos. Youth empowerment is about equipping our children with the skills and knowledge that will set them on career paths leading to success in life.”
The program will admit two cohorts of 1,000 participants annually, creating an opportunity for more young people to benefit from the initiative.
Filling a Critical Gap
Machakos County Commissioner Josephine Ouko highlighted the importance of MYS in bridging gaps left by the National Youth Service, which cannot accommodate all eligible youth. She lauded the program for instilling life-transforming skills, patriotism, and resilience. “This will help you build patriotism and become the best in whatever you do while serving your country, Kenya. I urge other governors to emulate this initiative,” she remarked.
Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi called on other development partners to support similar programs, while Peace Mwikali, one of the recruits, expressed gratitude, noting that such initiatives address the challenges faced by disadvantaged youths seeking education beyond secondary school.
The County Government has ensured the welfare of participants by providing uniforms, hot meals, and personal items free of charge during their stay. This holistic approach underscores Governor Ndeti’s commitment to empowering Machakos’ youth and fostering sustainable development.
