This archive report was first published on 16 July 2020.
On July 16, 2020, the Kazi Mtaani initiative was launched in Lamu, with 2,500 youth enlisted to gain life skills and earn livelihoods in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis.
Speaking at the launch, Foreign Affairs PS Ambassador Macharia Kamau emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating that the life skills gained from the 6 and a half month exercise could propel proactive youths to set up businesses once the economy picks up again.
Ambassador Kamau noted that the national government recognizes the critical role that youths play in building the economy and that the Kazi Mtaani initiative is a step towards empowering them with the requisite skills and monetary facilitation to realize their dreams.
He further acknowledged the critical role that youths play in the tourism and hospitality sector, which has suffered significantly from the COVID-19 crisis.
At the launch, Housing PS Charles Hinga and Education CEC Paul Thairu also spoke, echoing sentiments of the importance of the initiative in empowering youth and promoting productive skills.
The Kazi Mtaani initiative aims to alleviate vulnerable youths through the COVID-19 crisis, with at least 270,000 youths set to benefit from the phase 2 of the program.
