More Than 700 Youths Awarded Startup Capital Through Murang’a Youth Service Program
The Murang’a County government has allocated KSh 15,000 each to over 700 youths as part of its Murang’a Youth Service program, which was launched in October of the previous year. This initiative aims to support young entrepreneurs by providing startup capital to help them establish small businesses.
Program Overview
The program, funded with KSh 115 million, engages youths in cleaning urban centers for three months, where they earn a daily stipend of KSh 400. Of this amount, KSh 100 is sent to their parents as an encouragement and support. Following the cleaning work, participants are enrolled in local vocational institutions for short technical courses, sponsored by the county administration. Graduates of these courses are then awarded KSh 15,000 each as startup capital for their business ventures.
Graduation Ceremony
On July 27, 2024, Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata and Deputy Governor Stephen Munania presented the startup funds to the beneficiaries at Ihura Stadium. Governor Kang’ata emphasized the program’s role in job creation, given the high wage bill at the county level, which limits direct employment opportunities. “This program ensures we provide job opportunities for youths,” he stated.
Impact and Future Plans
The program not only aims to improve hygiene in the county but also to provide employment opportunities for approximately 3,000 engaged youths. Graduates are expected to receive National Industrial Training Authority certification by September, enhancing their employability. Governor Kang’ata advised beneficiaries to use the funds to establish businesses that could improve their living standards and announced a tax waiver to support their ventures. “We are pleased that this program circulates money at the grassroots level, and we are exploring more ways to create jobs for youths,” he added.
Success Stories
Jane Muthoni, a beneficiary from Karung’e village in Mathioya sub-county, shared her success story, revealing that she now owns a hairdressing shop. “I have always aspired to be self-employed but faced financial constraints. The hairdressing course I undertook will now enable me to realize my dream of running a hairdressing business,” she explained.
The Murang’a Youth Service program exemplifies a comprehensive approach to youth empowerment by combining immediate employment, skill training, and startup capital to foster sustainable livelihoods.
