This archive report was first published on 18 July 2020.
As part of the Ksh 10 billion National Hygiene Program, over 280,000 youth will be trained on how to access government procurement opportunities at countrywide sensitization forums.
According to Housing Principal Secretary Charles Hinga, most youth miss out on the Access to Government Opportunities (AGPO) program because they believe bidding for government tenders is costly, long, and laborious.
AGPO, a program initiated by President Uhuru Kenyatta in 2016, facilitates youth, women, and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) to participate in government procurement.
At a sensitization forum in Nakuru, Hinga emphasized that the capacity building forums will equip participants with entrepreneurial knowledge and technical skills such as masonry, carpentry, and welding.
He stated that the National government is committed to giving the youth opportunities for business and growth, as a sure way of laying a firm foundation for fighting poverty.
President Kenyatta had directed all Ministries to domesticate the Kazi Mtaani initiative to cushion vulnerable persons against economic shocks caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Enabling youth to do business with the government and see business opportunities that Covid-19 may have ushered in our midst will improve the living conditions of the country’s most vulnerable populations,” Hinga said.
He added that the sensitization forums will give fresh hope to disadvantaged bidders for government tenders, drive social change, and increase accessibility and equity in other sectors of society.
Rift Valley Regional Commissioner George Natembeya warned local administrators who may engage in irregular activities during the Kazi Mtaani initiative, stating that those found culpable will be prosecuted in law courts.
