Athi River Ward representative Michael Mutua has asked youth in the Ward to shun crime and instead work with their leaders to promote development.
Speaking to youth leaders in Athi River town on Friday, Mutua said some youths are easily being lured into crime.
He said that the future of the ward will be in limbo if youths are not prevented from joining criminal groups.
The MCA said that youths are falling prey to crime because of desperation.
“The rate at which youth are being lured into crime is worrying. We need interventions to prevent this and guarantee a future for our young people,” he said.
The Athi River MCA asked youth to change their ways and take advantage of the government opportunities.
He said that the national and the county government has put in place strategies aimed at empowering youth.
Mutua said that though unemployment is a concern for many youth, they should grab the few opportunities being provided by the government.
Mutua urged youth leaders to be on the front line of condemning acts of drug abuse, crime and prostitution.
He said that youth leaders can help advance development if they present their grievances to policy makers.