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Governor FCPA Fernandes Barasa today hosted H.E. President Dr. William Ruto and other leaders at Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) for the International Youth Day celebrations, themed “Empowering Local Youth Action for Global SDG Impact”.

The event brought together thousands of young people, national and county leaders, and development partners in a show of unity and commitment to youth empowerment.

In his address, Governor Barasa said creating an enabling environment for youth to excel remains a top priority for his administration. He highlighted programmes such as integrating youth into agriculture through the Agripreneur Model in partnership with the National Agricultural Value Chain Development Project (NAVCDP), promoting access to government tenders through the Access to Government Procurement Opportunities (AGPO) programme, talent development initiatives like the Governor’s Cup, provision of micro-financial support and grants to youth groups, and internship and attachment opportunities for students. He said these initiatives are designed to equip young people with skills, resources, and opportunities to actively contribute to the county’s economic growth.

The event also saw President Ruto present cheques worth KSh163 million to support 816 young people who have successfully secured jobs through the Labour Mobility Programme to work abroad. In addition, he launched the “Kuna Form” portal, a digital platform that will make it easier for youth to access business opportunities in government.

Governor Barasa praised the collaboration between the county, the national government, and development partners in promoting youth-led innovation and entrepreneurship, stressing that continued investment in the creativity, skills, and talents of young people is essential for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and ensuring that the youth of Kakamega County become not only job seekers but also job creators.