We shall Transform Nyanza, say Luo Youth
Thirty five youth leaders in Kisumu have declared their intention to advocate for peace and change the economic and socio-political landscape of Nyanza region.
At a meeting convened by the National Council of Churches of Kenya under the Pamoja Initiative, the group asserted that they will ensure the perception that Nyanza youth are violent is changed. The youth leaders identified political party participation, vetting of leaders at all levels and engagement in business as critical interventions in promoting citizen participation in governance.
To improve the financial welfare of the youths in the region, the meeting agreed that youth leaders would sensitize their peers to diversify economic activities and especially change their attitude towards agricultural activities. They agreed to create a conducive environment for potential investors and to advocate for revival of moribund industries so as to spur economic growth in Nyanza.
The participants took time during the meeting to analyse the community’s economic and socio-political achievements as well as missteps since independence as well as their relations with other communities. Consequently they tasked NCCK to facilitate a forum between Nyanza youths and their peers from other communities so as to promote understanding and peace.
The participants were drawn from church, civil society, and administration leaders in Migori, Kisumu, Siaya and Homa Bay counties. The Pamoja Initiative is a 2-year project aimed at creating safe spaces for intra and inter ethnic dialogue on peace with a goal of building consensus and reconciliation among communities that have had conflicts in the past.
A participant during the youth forum makes a presentation
