About 90 youths in Makueni have been given trade tools to start businesses to generate income, alleviate poverty and become self-reliant.
The youths were handed over the tools by the Makueni deputy governor Lucy Mulili after they underwent a thorough 8 weeks job training under the supervision of identified master craftsmen.
The beneficiaries were drawn from 30 wards in the county.
This was through a programme dubbed Ujuzi Teke Teke in the Department of Gender, Children, Youth, Sports and Social Services.
“The programme seeks to create self-employment for the youth and bridge the capital gap by providing tools of work.
"It gives me great pleasure to be part of this occasion targeting the Jua Kali sector, a game changer when it comes to the economic stability of our county,” Mulili said.
She spoke during the graduation and issuance of tools trade for the Teke Teke programme at the Makueni Integrated Vocation Centre.
Some of the tools of the trade included sewing machines, car wash machines, saloons, and barber machines among others.
“I encourage you apprentices to make the most of these tools provided and to continue striving for excellence in your trades,” Mulili said.
She said the government is committed to supporting the informal sector through policies that promote fair trade, access to resources and continuous development of skills.
“We will continue to invest in programmes that empower our youth and ensure they have opportunities and tools needed to thrive,” she said.
Makueni Youth Executive Committee Member (ECM) Engineer Peter Mumo warned the beneficiaries against selling the tools and said they will be monitored.
Mumo said the government will recover the tools from individuals who will try to sell them.
