Nairobi: The Kericho County Assembly has passed the Kericho County Youth Development Bill, 2024, during the first-ever Bunge Mashinani sitting. The bill, sponsored by Nominated Member of the County Assembly (MCA) Isaack Matkeir, aims to create a framework for increased youth employment in government and public entities and to ensure 30 percent of government procurement opportunities are accessible to youth.
According to Kenya News Agency, the bill also aims to address the unique social and economic needs of young people in the county. The historic sitting was conducted at the Ainamoi Technical Training Institute in Ainamoi Constituency, marking a significant milestone as it was the first time in Kenya’s devolved history that a County Assembly conducted official plenary proceedings outside its chambers.
The County Assembly is now tasked with forwarding the bill to the Governor for assent within 14 days, moving one step closer to implementing youth-focused programs across Kericho County. Alongside the Youth Development Bill, the assembly also discussed the Report by the Committee on Appointments concerning the approval hearing of the Selection Panel for the County Public Service Board, allowing residents to engage in discussions about key County leadership bodies.
The Bunge Mashinani sitting, presided over by Speaker Dr. Patrick Mutai, emphasized the importance of public scrutiny of development projects and leaders. Dr. Mutai highlighted that such initiatives promote accountability, transparency, and public engagement in legislative processes, bringing the work of the County Assembly closer to the people.
Dr. Mutai expressed that the initiative allows the voices of Kericho residents to be heard in matters affecting their lives, reinforcing the Assembly’s commitment to openness and citizen-driven governance. The Bunge Mashinani Initiative is set to continue today at Kaplelartet Primary School in Kaplelartet Ward, Sigowet/Soin Constituency, where the assembly will deliberate on additional reports and bills.
According to Article 174 of the Constitution of Kenya, devolution aims to enhance public participation and ensure governance and resources are accessible to the people. Article 196(1)(b) mandates County Assemblies to facilitate citizen involvement in legislative activities, further supporting these initiatives.
