Lari Sub-County authorities are intensifying calls for young residents to embrace technical and vocational training, alongside agribusiness, as crucial pathways to economic self-reliance and job creation. During recent Madaraka Day celebrations at Nyambari in Lari Kirenga ward, Deputy County Commissioner Samuel Kariuki firmly urged parents to guide their children towards technical institutes, emphasizing the government’s substantial investment in equipping these facilities.
DCC Kariuki underscored the importance of skill acquisition in an evolving job market, where traditional ‘white-collar’ opportunities are scarce. He highlighted the state’s commitment to vocational education, stating, “Our technical institutes have been equipped well with the best equipment. We also have qualified tutors who are experienced to train our youths until they are sharp.” This investment, he noted, ensures that essential learning materials are readily available, fostering a conducive environment for practical learning.
The administrator expressed concern over the prevalence of youth idling in villages and trading centers, attributing it to a lack of employment. He challenged young people to harness their creativity, asserting that technical training provides the foundation to “start a business comfortably” upon graduation. Kariuki’s message stressed a shift from seeking employment to actively creating it, aligning with the national agenda of economic empowerment.
Accompanying DCC Kariuki at the event were several dignitaries, including Lari Kirenga Ward Member of County Assembly Josphat Kinyanjui, Sub-County Police Commander Emily Ngaruiya, and Senior Assistant County Commissioners Benard Mbogo and Evlyne Moraa. The gathering served as a platform to rally community support for government initiatives.
Beyond vocational training, Kariuki encouraged residents to seriously consider agribusiness, citing Lari’s favorable climate for farming. He commended area Member of Parliament Mburu Kahangara, who was absent, for his pivotal role in lobbying for the tarmacking of major roads across the sub-county. This infrastructure improvement, Kariuki explained, directly supports President William Ruto’s vision of empowering all regions by facilitating easier transportation of farm produce and enhancing overall movement, thereby boosting local economies.
Area MCA Josphat Kinyanjui echoed the sentiment regarding youth engagement, suggesting that busy young people are less likely to fall into illegal activities. He passionately urged youth to explore and cultivate their inherent talents, highlighting examples such as football, athletics, drawing, and painting. Kinyanjui pointed out that sports and arts have already proven to be significant job creators, with some local artists even gaining international recognition for their work.
MCA Kinyanjui further highlighted Governor Kimani Wamatangi’s initiatives aimed at bolstering household food security and economic resilience. These programs, he explained, have empowered locals with certified maize seeds, fertilizers, chicks, and pigs, enabling families to engage in profitable pig and poultry farming. He affirmed that these comprehensive empowerment efforts, including educational support for youth, are making a tangible difference in many families’ lives.
