TRANS NZOIA, KENYA — The Trans Nzoia County Government has unveiled the Ukombozi Empowerment Programme, a new initiative designed to support vulnerable community groups through education, vocational training, and access to essential resources. The program’s launch took place at the Kitale Showground, where Governor George Natembeya emphasized the importance of partnerships and community engagement in the program’s implementation.
According to Kenya News Agency, the Ukombozi Empowerment Programme aims to improve sanitation across all markets in Trans Nzoia County and ensure the smooth operation of drainage systems. A significant component of the initiative is to provide employment opportunities to 2,500 youths from informal settlements, who will receive a monthly stipend of Sh 5,000 for ten days of work in shifts.
The Governor encouraged youths living in informal settlements to seize the opportunity presented by the Ukombozi Programme, highlighting its potential to enhance their livelihoods and contribute to their families’ financial stability. Additionally, Natembeya announced plans to introduce entrepreneurship programs for youths, emphasizing the importance of educating them on investment and savings strategies as a key to the initiative’s success.
Efforts to empower women and youths will be further supported through the collaboration with the County Assembly to formulate and approve relevant policies. Hospital Ward Member of County Assembly (MCA) Erick Wafula, alongside Matisi Ward counterpart Obed Mahanga, praised the Governor for launching the program, noting its significant potential to improve living standards for the vulnerable populations in Trans Nzoia.
Wafula specifically highlighted the program’s role in engaging youths constructively, thereby reducing their involvement in petty crimes within informal settlements. The launch event was attended by key county officials, including Trans Nzoia County Secretary Truphosa Amere and County Executive Committee Members Chanelle Kittony (Gender, Youths, Sports, Culture, and Tourism) and Phanice Khatundi (Agriculture), who stand ready to support the Ukombozi Programme’s objectives.