The Youth Affairs Division
The Youth Affairs Division in Kilifi County is dedicated to empowering the young population through targeted initiatives that address their unique challenges and unlock their potential. The division operates under the broader Department of Gender and aims to create an enabling environment for youth to thrive economically, socially, and politically. Through strategic partnerships, innovative programs, and sustained support, the division seeks to uplift the youth, ensuring they play a pivotal role in the county’s development.
Economic Empowerment Initiatives
One of the key focus areas of the Youth Affairs Division is economic empowerment. Recognizing that access to economic opportunities is critical for the growth and development of young people, the division has launched several initiatives aimed at boosting youth entrepreneurship and employability.
Entrepreneurship Training and Support:
The division offers specialized training programs in various sectors, including agribusiness, digital business, creative arts, and more. These programs equip young entrepreneurs with the skills they need to start and scale their businesses. Additionally, the division facilitates access to financial resources through partnerships with institutions like the Wezesha Fund, enabling youth to secure the capital needed for their ventures.
Job Creation Programs:
The division collaborates with both public and private sector stakeholders to create job opportunities for the youth. This includes initiatives like internships, apprenticeships, and skill development programs tailored to meet the demands of the modern job market.
Social and Civic Engagement
The Youth Affairs Division is committed to fostering active citizenship among the youth by promoting social and civic engagement. Through various platforms, the division encourages young people to participate in community development and decision-making processes.
Leadership Development:
The division organizes leadership training workshops to build the capacity of young leaders across the county. These workshops focus on enhancing leadership skills, understanding governance, and fostering a sense of responsibility among the youth.
Youth Forums and Dialogues:
Regular forums and dialogues are held to give youth a voice in the county’s development agenda. These platforms allow young people to express their views, share their challenges, and contribute to policy-making processes that affect their lives.
Health and Well-being Programs
Understanding the critical role of health in youth development, the division implements programs aimed at improving the physical and mental well-being of young people. These programs are designed to address the specific health challenges faced by the youth in Kilifi County.
Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) Education:
The division, in partnership with various organizations, provides SRH education and services to adolescents and young people. This includes awareness campaigns, distribution of dignity kits, and access to reproductive health services, with a focus on reducing the incidence of HIV/AIDS, teenage pregnancies, and other health-related issues.
Mental Health Support:
Recognizing the growing mental health challenges among the youth, the division has introduced mental health support programs. These programs offer counseling services, peer support groups, and awareness campaigns aimed at reducing stigma and promoting mental well-being.
Cultural and Creative Arts Promotion
The Youth Affairs Division also plays a crucial role in promoting cultural and creative arts among the youth. This is part of a broader strategy to preserve the rich cultural heritage of Kilifi County while providing a platform for young people to express themselves creatively.
Cultural Festivals and Competitions:
The division organizes annual cultural festivals and competitions that showcase the talents of young people in music, dance, visual arts, and other creative expressions. These events not only celebrate the county’s cultural diversity but also provide opportunities for young artists to gain recognition and support.
Creative Industry Development:
In collaboration with various stakeholders, the division supports the growth of the creative industry by providing training, mentorship, and market access for young creatives. This initiative aims to turn creative talents into viable career paths for the youth.
Future Plans and Strategic Goals
Looking ahead, the Youth Affairs Division is committed to scaling up its programs and expanding its reach to ensure that no young person in Kilifi County is left behind. The division aims to:
Increase Access to Resources:
By strengthening partnerships and securing more funding, the division plans to increase access to resources for youth-led initiatives and businesses.
Enhance Program Impact:
Through rigorous monitoring and evaluation, the division will continue to refine its programs to maximize their impact on the youth.
Promote Inclusive Development:
The division will focus on inclusive development, ensuring that all youth, including those from marginalized communities, have access to the opportunities and support they need to succeed.
The Youth Affairs Division remains steadfast in its mission to empower the youth of Kilifi County, driving the county towards a future of sustainable growth and development through the active participation of its young population.