A newly launched youth group in Kiambu County is set to begin enrolling young people from across the region in a major bid to provide vocational skills and business training.
The initiative aims to alleviate poverty and combat the idleness that has led many youths into drug abuse, particularly the consumption of illicit alcohol, which has caused numerous deaths in the area.
Launched in Ndumberi under the patronage of Thomas Kimari—founder of Gratom Babz Security Company—the group, known as the Kiambu Youth Impact Circle, has already established a Sacco to oversee its operations and ensure financial sustainability.
Speaking during a fundraiser to support the Sacco’s setup, which was officiated by Jubilee Presidential Candidate Dr. Fred Matiang’i, Mr. Kimari announced that the group will recruit over 500 youths in the coming days for initial training.
”We intend to empower the less privileged and, more importantly, the educated youths who are jobless and have lost hope,” Kimari said. “We will be setting up car wash yards equipped with modern machinery for these youths. Those with specialized skills will also be supported in their respective fields.”
Kimari also dismissed rumors that he is using the initiative to campaign for the Kiambu MP seat, asserting that his sole mission is to keep the youth busy and eradicate the drug abuse that has spread through the county like wildfire.
In a statement delivered by Jubilee Deputy Secretary General Zack Kinuthia, Dr. Fred Matiang’i praised the initiative as timely. He noted that many youths have become desperate after completing their education only to find no employment or guidance. He pledged to prioritize job creation through skill acquisition rather than “handout culture” if elected to office.
Shem Ranji, the leader of the group, described the initiative as a major milestone. The collective consists of lawyers, engineers, designers, and other young professionals who have teamed up to uplift the living standards of youths in their home villages.
Ranji further noted that the frustrations of unemployment have led to a spike in depression and reported suicide cases among the youth—issues the group hopes to address by providing a sense of purpose and a path to financial independence.
