This archive report was first published on 19 October 2019.
Published on October 19, 2019, the latest edition of the Kenya Gazette features a list of appointees to parastatal boards and government agencies, with many individuals born during Daniel Moi's herdsboy days.
According to the World Health Organization, the life expectancy in Kenya was 64 years for men and 69 for women as of 2016. A review of the appointees' ages reveals a concerning trend: many are elderly individuals who have been recycled back into government.
Moody Awori, 91, has been appointed chairman of the Sports, Art and Social Development Fund, while Noah Wekesa, 83, chairs the Strategic Food Reserve Fund. Julia Ojiambo, 81, leads the University of Nairobi Council, and David Musila, 76, heads the National Museums of Kenya. Mary Wambui, 69, is the chair of the National Employment Authority.
Had merit been a consideration in these appointments, Mary Wambui would not have been a contender. Her appointment is symptomatic of a larger issue: the neglect of young people in Kenya.
During the 2013 presidential campaign, Uhuru Kenyatta and William Ruto promised to bring a youthful and vibrant government to power. They coined the 'Digital vs Analogue' slogan, promising to empower the youth with jobs, business funds, and technical training. However, these promises have not been fulfilled.
Today, the youth in Kenya are facing neglect and disappointment. The government's failure to deliver on its promises has left many young people feeling disillusioned and ignored.
President Kenyatta's recent statement that young people are 'incorrigible thieves' who cannot be trusted with public office is a stark reminder of the government's lack of commitment to youth empowerment.
