President Uhuru Kenyatta on Monday assured Kenyans that all those involved in pilfering resources earmarked for the youth will be held to account.
The President noted that although the National Youth Service (NYS) programme has faced some challenges, it has delivered clear and tangible successes.
“I would like to urge Kenyans to draw a clear distinction between the positive impact of the NYS Programme and the deplorable mismanagement of the past orchestrated by individuals who were determined to railroad its success,” the President said.
President Kenyatta was speaking at Nyayo National Stadium where he led the nation in marking this year’s Jamhuri Day celebrations.
He said as the country seeks to empower the youth, it will not shy away from making reference to the NYS.
“For instance, since 2013 the programme has employed over 91,334 cohorts spread over 21 constituencies across the country. The programme has expended Sh5.4 billion of which Sh3.4 billion has been paid out as direct wages to those recruited while the balance has gone towards savings,” the President said.
As part of the Cohort programme, the President observed that special emphasis has been accorded to the country’s young women who – through the Huduma Kitchen – have received Sh365 million in financial support.
“Further, through the support of my Government, these youth have so far organized themselves in to 300 Saccos and with our support they have been able to mobilize Sh1.4 billion in savings,” the President said.
By PSCU.