Mvita MP Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir (L) with Haki Africa officials Hussein Khalid, Salma Hemed and Francis Auma. [Photo/ Maxwell Ngala]
Mvita MP Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir has promised to support programmes aimed at curbing crime among youth in Old Town.Speaking on Wednesday when he handed over a car wash machine to a group of youth in Old Town, Nassir said the move will give the youth an opportunity to engage in income generating activities.The legislator said cases of insecurity in the area have reduced, adding that it was important for youth to engage in development to prevent them from terrorizing residents.“Apart from the car wash machine, we have also handed over several cleaning equipment for our youth to conduct business and earn a living,” said Nassir.The MP, however, admitted that cases of school dropouts have been a major problem in the area since children as young as 14 years old were now engaging in crime.“We cannot blame insecurity in the area on lack of employment since a 14-year-old boy does not own an identity card thus cannot be employed,” he said.Nassir assured the youth he will support them if they shun crime and drug abuse.Haki Africa, a human rights lobby has launched a counseling programme in the area to rehabilitate ex-criminals.Over 60 youth and their parents have enrolled in the programme and are now acting as peace and security ambassadors in the area.