Kiambu: A new youth initiative, the Kiambu Youth Impact Circle (KYIC), is empowering young people across four wards in Kiambu through civic education, mentorship, and entrepreneurship support. The initiative’s launch event held last week was attended by hundreds of young people and graced by former Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i, community leaders, and youth advocates.
According to Kenya News Agency, KYIC Chairperson Mr. Shem Ranji stated that the group was formed after its founding committee identified a gap in youth representation and civic awareness in the area. “We realized many youths don’t know what their leaders actually do or how government works. That’s why we started civic classes to educate and empower our peers,” said Ranji. He noted that most young people in Kiambu are still unaware of the roles and responsibilities of their elected leaders, from Members of County Assembly to Members of Parliament.
The group, which will operate across Kiambu, Ndumberi, Riabai, and Ting’ang’a wards, is in the process of registering as a Community-Based Organization (CBO) and maintains a non-political stance. The group’s patron, Mr. Thomas Kimari Kamau, popularly known as Gratom, said the initiative aims to create opportunities that have a tangible impact on young people’s lives. “Our dream is to see young people in Kiambu empowered not just through talk, but through opportunities that transform lives,” said Kimari.
One of the beneficiaries, Brian Mbugua from Riabai Ward, said the program has given him a new sense of direction. “Before joining, I didn’t understand much about leadership or business growth. The civic classes have opened my eyes. Now I’m planning to expand my boda boda business and employ others,” he said. Grace Njeri, a participant from Ndumberi, said the sessions have boosted her confidence as a young woman. “As young women, we often feel left out of important discussions. KYIC has given me the courage to speak up and to mentor other girls in my area,” she said.
The group’s Legal Secretary, Florence Wairimu, said registration as a CBO will strengthen accountability and enable partnerships with other organizations. “Once registration is complete, we will begin formal recruitment and support youth with viable business ideas or those needing a boost for existing ventures,” she said. Wairimu added that KYIC plans to conduct regular civic training workshops, mentorship forums, and mental health awareness drives within the four wards.
Ranji encouraged young people to take advantage of the opportunity, noting that the group’s activities align with Kenya’s National Youth Policy, which emphasizes inclusion, innovation, and job creation. The launch concluded with a call to youth across Kiambu to join KYIC and participate in activities promoting knowledge, accountability, and community development.