Youth Groups Take the Lead in Kisumu’s Economic Empowerment Drive

Youth and women groups across Kisumu County are taking the lead in reshaping their communities, following a major empowerment initiative that aims to boost entrepreneurship, self-reliance, and active civic engagement among the region’s younger population.

In a recent forum held in Kisumu, youth representatives from all 35 wards came together to discuss critical issues such as economic empowerment, inclusion in decision-making, and strengthening community policing structures. The event provided a platform for young people to express their views, exchange ideas, and propose local solutions to national challenges.

As part of the initiative, youth groups received a significant boost through the donation of five tuk-tuks, ten motorcycles, and one matatu—all intended to support youth-led transport and delivery services. Women traders were also supported through a Kes 500,000 fund to enhance their business activities and access to markets.

The support was made possible through a collaborative effort led by Interior Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo, who was joined by his Medical Services counterpart, Dr. Ouma Oluga.

Their visit to Kisumu, Omollo said, “Underscore the government’s broader push to strengthen youth involvement in development and promote sustainable economic growth as a pathway to community security, not just here in Kisumu but across the country.”

“This is not just about giving tools—it’s about restoring hope and creating pathways for young people to become changemakers in their communities,” said a youth leader during the forum.

The Kisumu empowerment drive is part of a broader strategy that the government is banking on to involve youth in peace-building and crime prevention.

Similar efforts have been seen in recent weeks through programs like Jukwaa la Usalama, a community-centered initiative that encourages dialogue between security agencies and residents across Kenya’s 47 counties, especially in crime-prone areas. The first edition was held by interior cabinet secretary Kipchumba Murkomen in five coastal counties.

These forums have become important spaces for addressing youth unemployment, drug abuse, and violence—key drivers of insecurity.

Through these interventions, the government aims to shift the narrative around youth from that of vulnerability to one of leadership and innovation.