Nairobi North Sub-Region County Commissioner Simon Osumba has urged young people to avoid criminal activities and pursue constructive initiatives, including environmental conservation and employment opportunities under the Nairobi Rivers Basin Regeneration Programme (NaBREP). Speaking during the 63rd Mashujaa Day celebrations at Kamukunji Technical and Vocational Training College, Osumba said the government planned to recruit an additional 5,000 young people in Nairobi under NaBREP.
He encouraged youth to take advantage of the anticipated opportunities, particularly in environmental conservation, as the government seeks to improve livelihoods while restoring the Nairobi River basin. The programme could provide young people with opportunities to participate in environmental restoration and related activities while gaining practical experience in conservation work.
Youth Encouraged to Participate in Elections
Osumba also called on young people, particularly Generation Z, to exercise their democratic rights by registering as voters and holding elected leaders accountable for their performance.
“We request our youths, especially Gen Z, to use their voter cards as a weapon to remove those who are not performing. You need to weigh all elected leaders and avoid those who want to lure you into illegal activities,” he said.
He urged young people to make informed decisions and resist attempts to draw them into unlawful activities.
Community Policing and Parental Responsibility
The county commissioner called for stronger cooperation between residents, police officers and National Government Administrative Officers (NGAOs) to address crime and maintain security. He urged residents to report criminal activities to the relevant authorities rather than taking the law into their own hands.
Osumba also appealed to parents and guardians to take an active role in supervising their children, warning that a lack of guidance could expose young people to crime and other social risks. He further cautioned traders against the illegal sale of alcoholic drinks, calling on chiefs, assistant chiefs and Members of County Assembly to work together to identify unlawful liquor outlets and support enforcement of the law.
Affordable Housing and Market Development
Osumba encouraged residents to embrace the government’s Affordable Housing Programme, highlighting more than 4,000 housing units under development in Shauri Moyo, which he said were nearing completion. He also noted progress towards the second phase of the modern Gikomba Market, describing ongoing development initiatives as part of efforts to improve infrastructure and livelihoods in the area.
In sports, the commissioner highlighted plans for a new football facility in Kamukunji, which he compared to Manchester United’s Old Trafford Stadium. The proposed facility is expected to contribute to sports development and provide opportunities for local talent.
Government Assures Candidates of Examination Security
On education, Osumba assured candidates sitting for the Kenya Primary School Education Assessment and Junior School examinations that NGAOs would coordinate with relevant agencies to ensure examination materials reached centres on time.
He also said adequate security arrangements would be maintained during the examination period. The commissioner called on residents to support initiatives aimed at promoting peace, protecting young people and improving living standards.
For Nairobi’s youth, the proposed NaBREP recruitment presents a potential opportunity to connect environmental conservation with employment and practical work experience. Further details on the recruitment process and eligibility requirements will be important for young people seeking to participate.