A Member of the County Assembly yesterday says that women in his area of representation work hard and are actively involved in development projects in comparison to youths.
Menengai MCA James Macharia, while refuting claims by local youth leaders that women are favoured by local leaders at the expense of youth in the allocation and distribution development resources, urged youths to be more cautious and active to remain relevant.
He was reacting to a petition by a local youth group lobby accusing local leaders that they were favouring women while sidelining youth in dishing out development resources. The youth, in a petition to the local MCA and area Member of Parliament David Gikaria, complained that local women groups were the sole beneficiaries of development funds and projects while the youth who are unemployed are sidestepped.
According to the MCA, majority of women in the area work hard in their different groups to initiate development projects that are aimed at empowering themselves and developing the community and exercise responsibility as compared to the youth.
He said the area has very few youth groups compared to women groups while also very few youth had come up with development plans that aim to empower them.
“I challenge the youth to be more active. Let them not complain while they are putting in very little effort towards their empowerment,” said the MCA.
He however said he would consult the area MP and other local leaders to arrange for a meeting with the youths noting that they ought to be addressed to be inspired.