[Ijara MP Sophia Abdi Noor. She has said the launch of NYS program will keep youths busy and reduce cases of crime, usage of drugs.] (Photo/Nation)
NYS has launched its Youth Empowerment Program in Ijara Constituency, Garissa County.
The program will see 900 youths employed and it has been launched in 260 constituencies across the country.
NYS Director Sospeter Mabeya said the youths will be engaged in community work such as cleaning the town, collecting litter and polythene bags, planting trees among other activities.
The youths will form a SACCO that whereby they will be contributing Sh141 deducted from their wages and save in the SACCO's account.
Area MP, Sophia Abdi Noor said the programme will curb crime and drug abuse among the youth.
“Many of our youth have been engaging in crime and use of drugs due to lack of job opportunities. The program will now give the youths a good opportunity to engage in meaningful employment and improve their lives,” she said.
The MP said, next month, a similar program will be launched in Hulugho sub-county where 900 youths will be recruited.
According to the lawmaker, the initiative will help to reduce inter-clan conflicts since all the youths irrespective of their ethnic backgrounds will be working together.