Tharaka-Nithi Youth Urge Dialogue, Request Kindiki to Lead Talks

Youth in Tharaka-Nithi County, under the Tharaka-Nithi Youth Empowerment CBO, have called on the government to consider and engage them in national dialogues to air their grievances and seek an end to the unrest and violence witnessed in the country.

Speaking during a Soft and Digital Skills Training at Mpukoni in Chuka Igambang'ombe Constituency, the youth requested the government to extend an invite to them through their representatives, where they can present their recommendations and suggestions at the negotiation table.

Additionally, the youth unanimously vouched for Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, asking the President to delegate mediation duties to his deputy, praising him for his successful campaigns in empowerment forums across the country.

“We need fresh and new faces who are ready to listen to the youth. We have had talks such as the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) Report which have never been implemented. The President should now delegate negotiation duties to his deputy, Kithure Kindiki,” said Dennis Mugambi, a youth leader.

“We request President William Ruto to also give the youth a chance to be heard and to give their opinion. If the youth are invited for talks, then this will be a solution to the protests and violence being witnessed in the country. The President should engage his deputy, Kithure Kindiki, to take charge of the talks to bring peace and stability,” added Stella Gakii.

The youth representatives requested the government to fast-track the implementation of the promised digital hubs across the country, saying it would help solve the unemployment crisis and keep them off the streets.

Speaking at the training, Woman Representative aspirant Christine Gatiria asked the government to have a conversation with the youth just like it does with other groups in the country, and to implement key infrastructure projects such as digital hubs and talent centres to keep them engaged. She also urged the youth to form groups to enable funding and financial stability through projects.

“Dialogue is needed. The youth are no longer leaders of tomorrow but leaders of today. If they are not invited for talks, we will keep on saying they want violence and protests, which is not the case. The government should invite youth leaders to the conversation,” she said.

On Wednesday, President William Ruto, while meeting the clergy at State House, said the establishment of digital hubs in the 1,450 wards was underway.