Busia: Busia County Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo has called for the economic empowerment of unemployed youth to divert them from political ‘goonism’ and channel their energy, courage, and determination into productive activities.
According to Kenya News Agency, Omanyo highlighted that many young people, often labeled as political goons, are unemployed and lack skills, which leaves them vulnerable to recruitment into political confrontations in exchange for money or other forms of support. This vulnerability has perpetuated a cycle of political violence, with politicians exploiting these youths to confront opponents, leading to clashes between rival groups.
Omanyo expressed concern that such clashes could result in injuries or fatalities among young people, while the politicians they seek to protect remain unharmed. She made these remarks at Changara Market during an empowerment programme where women and youth received business kits under the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF) to support their businesses. She emphasized that providing meaningful economic opportunities is crucial to breaking this cycle of violence.
In her capacity as the acting ODM Secretary General, Omanyo proposed that youths be trained for national service and other forms of productive employment, suggesting opportunities in the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), National Youth Service (NYS), and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions. She also advocated for technical training programs for youths without academic qualifications to acquire skills in trades such as carpentry and tailoring, enabling them to become self-reliant.
Omanyo vowed to continue advocating for unemployed youth susceptible to political exploitation, stating that addressing the root causes of their vulnerability is essential. “I will repeat again, I will defend young people who due to their vulnerability are being misled and used as goons because they are our children,” she affirmed.
She urged politicians nationwide to cease recruiting young people into political violence and instead support them in acquiring skills, establishing businesses, and securing employment.
