Youth are the backbone of any nation, and their energy, creativity, and potential are unmatched.
In Kenya, the youth comprise a large proportion of the population, but their talents and aspirations are often ignored or unsupported. This lack of support has left many young people unemployed, poor, and, in some cases, involved in criminal activities. These challenges affect the individual and the nation’s social stability and economic growth. It’s time the government takes deliberate steps to support the youth in their initiatives, as it can reduce crime rates and unlock enormous economic potential.
One of the root causes of crime among the youth is a lack of opportunities. Many are educated and skilled but find themselves unemployed or underemployed. This frustration, coupled with daily survival pressures, often pushes some to engage in illegal activities as a means of survival. Petty theft, drug trafficking and other forms of crime become the ugly alternatives for those who feel abandoned by the system.
Entrepreneurial ventures
However, crime is not the first choice for most of these individuals. If given the opportunity to pursue meaningful work or entrepreneurial ventures, many would gladly leave such activities behind. The government, therefore, has a key role to play in addressing these challenges. By supporting youth-led initiatives, the government can provide the youth with the tools and platforms to succeed.
This can take many forms, including funding for startups, access to affordable loans, mentorship programs, and youth-friendly policies that encourage innovation. For instance, many young people in Kenya have brilliant ideas in fields like agriculture, technology, and creative arts but lack the capital to implement them.
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The government can turn these ideas into thriving businesses by providing financial support and reducing bureaucratic barriers.
Additionally investing in vocational training and skills development programs is another critical step. Not every young person can pursue higher education but that doesn’t mean they can’t contribute meaningfully to the economy. Programs that teach practical skills like carpentry, tailoring, coding or plumbing can prepare the youth for employment in various sectors.
Financial independence
With proper training and certification, youth can access jobs that bring them dignity and financial independence and reduce their chance of becoming criminals. Supporting the youth goes beyond reducing crime. When young people are empowered to achieve their goals, the whole nation benefits. Youth-led businesses and innovations can create jobs not just for the founders but for others as well; it’s a ripple effect of economic growth.
A generation of engaged and productive youth means a more dynamic and competitive economy. Countries that invest in their young people get huge returns in terms of GDP growth and social cohesion.
By Tonny Kyule
Tonny Kyule, Rongo University, Migori county.
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