By Shadrack Nyakoe
Nairobi MCAs have passed a motion compelling Governor Sonko’s administration to establish the Nairobi Youth Council.
The motion had been tabled by nominated MCA Kabiro Mbugua who represents the youth.
While tabling the motion, Kabiro said article Article 55 of the Constitution provides for the State to take measures, ensure the youth have opportunities to access employment and are protected from harmful practices and exploitation.
He said he is concerned that a majority of young people in Nairobi and Kenya have high hopes and ambitions but have little chance of nurturing them.
He said most young people have become desperate in life and turned to criminal behavior, violence, substance abuse, commercial sex work and even suicide.
“These have negative repercussions on the young people and contribute to insecurity, this Assembly urges the County Executive to develop a policy to establish Nairobi City County Youth Council to address issues bedeviling youth in the County,” Kabiro said.
While contributing to the debate, MCA Ruth Ndumbi- nominated said many youths are unemployed and engage in drug abuse and robbery adding that the Council will empower them.
Makongeni MCA Peter Imwatok said that the county government should issue bursaries on time to several youths who are in polytechnics so that they remain in school.
MCAs unanimously passed the motion.
Earlier on, National Youth Council Chairperson Edward Githaiga was at City Hall calling on MCA’s to support the motion.
Speaking before debate on the motion kicked off, Githaiga said the establishment of the Youth Council will help empower the youth within Nairobi.
“Governor Sonko, the ball is in your court now. Please fast track the establishment of the Nairobi Youth Council. It will help us a lot,” Githaiga said.
He added that among the things they are looking at to be included in the youth council are a County youth fund which will help the youth start projects like urban agriculture, a revolving fund, and loans at low interest rates.