THE COUNTY PARTNERS WITH YOUNG CITIES TO FIGHT VIOLENCE AND EXTREMISM AMONG THE YOUTH.

BY MERCY KIHUGU

The County Government of Nakuru in collaboration with Young Cities held the young Cities Nakuru showcase round table that brought together youth groups fighting violence and extremism in the county.

The showcase brought together delegates and youth from Mombasa and Kwale counties for an exchange program between the three counties.

The groups presented their initiatives and the impact they’ve had on their communities as we approach the electioneering period.

The initiatives include the use of music, creative art, and social media among others.

It was highlighted that joint efforts are necessary for the prevention of political extremism and election violence prevention in the county and country at large.

County Chief Officer in charge of Youth Affairs Dr. William Migwe said that the county has empowered the youth economically which has been significant in the creation of employment among the youth.

Additionally, we have been engaging the youth by supporting them to engage in business through the establishment of grants, and loans with low-interest rates.

Dr. Migwe further encouraged youth to get involved in public participation to ensure youth-friendly budgeting hence the implementation of sustainable programs for the youth.

Young Cities Sub-Saharan Africa Manager, Anisa Harassay highlighted that the network has funded three(3) groups in the county to support their peacebuilding efforts.

This includes the recent Beyond My Tribe(BMT) peace walk aimed at countering electoral violence.

The County has further put in place a Ksh 850 million County Enterprise Fund to enable empower Youth, Women, and Persons Living with Disability create decent wealth and those in Small, Medium Enterprises to access financial and non-financial assistance.

The targeted groups will get loans with an interest rate of 7.5 percent which is lower than what most financial institutions offer.