There is a need for a collective approach by religious leaders, scholars and parents in guiding young people and strengthening the intellectual resilience of communities.
Yahya Abdikadir, the deputy director at the National Counter Terrorism Centre, said the “unattended ideological fabric” sustains recruitment to violent extremist groups.
This can be combated when the youth are guided to understand the true call of their religion, countering misconceptions of jihad.
Abdikadir spoke when he led the distribution of start-up kits to support the vulnerable border communities in Wajir and Garissa, through a programme that is funded by the government of Japan.
The training, which saw 65 participants undergo intensive business skills development, resulted in the provision of business equipment courtesy of the International Organization for Migration.
The donated kits included car wash equipment sets, electrician tool kits, eatery equipment and salon-barber kits.
Yahya said the project targets Garissa, Wajir, Mandera and Lamu counties, which are affected by violent extremism and displacement.
The initiative aims to strengthen the capacity of the government and the resilience of vulnerable communities to enhance peace and security along the border.
Mohamed Abdullahi, 30, an employee at a barbershop and one of the beneficiaries, described it as a journey towards self reliance.
“It is a dream come true for me. My heart is truly filled with excitement and optimism. I will now have my own barber shop that will create job opportunities for other vulnerable youth in Wajir town,” he said.
Zamzam Kassim, who received a salon kit, expressed renewed hope.
“This is the kind of empowerment we need as youth. Unemployment is real and many with dreams to start their own business after getting skills from vocational training colleges had no money for start up,” she said.
Kassim intends to rent a room, start her own business and offer employment to her friends, who were trained but idling at home.
Wajir County Commissioner Karuko Gumo said the project will help curb insecurity in the region, as terror groups were exploiting the local youth due to poverty.
He urged the beneficiaries to help the government in combating violent extremism.
“With no peace, you will not be in a position to do your new business. It’s upon you to ensure you help the government in its mission of eradicating violent extremism. Business can only thrive in a peaceful and security environment,” he said during the handover ceremony.
The initiative is part of the larger project, “Strengthening Capacity of Government of Kenya and Resilience of Vulnerable Border Communities to Enhance Peace and Security Along Kenyan Eastern Borders.”
