More than 1,000 youths from Kisumu County are targeted for an economic empowerment programme that will have them start income generating activities.
The youth who will mostly deal with selling of household items will be employed by a company, Primus limited which empowers youth from informal settlements such as Nyalenda, Obunga, Manyatta and other areas.
Speaking at Lions High School in Kisumu where 12 youths were promoted to managers, Primus Director Walter Rorio said the initiative was a good one aimed at complementing government efforts of employing the jobless.
"Currently we have 100 branches countrywide with a maximum number of 5,985 youth and our aim is to empower them to be independent," said Rorio.
He said they recruit youths who have attained form four certificates and above and are now targeting over 20, 000 youths by the end of this year.
Rorio said unemployment was rapidly soaring up because people are dependent on white collar jobs yet self-employment provided an alternative avenue for income generation but has not been tapped fully.
The director said getting youth from informal settlements or any other place and offering them employment keeps their minds engaged and therefore avoid vices such as violence and drug abuse.
He admitted that the sale of the house hold wares may not give an instant success but urged the youth to work extra hard, smart and be patient as they will achieve a lot in future.
Jackline Kendi the co-director at Primus said the initiative is a good opportunity especially for young women who wish to be established entrepreneurs in future.