Busia's greatest asset is not its location. It is not its fertile land. It is not its border position. It is its people. And among them, young people represent the county's greatest opportunity for transformation.
Busia has one of the youngest populations in Kenya. Every year, thousands of young people complete primary school, secondary school, vocational training and university education with hopes of building meaningful and productive lives. Yet many continue to face significant barriers including unemployment, underemployment, limited access to capital and restricted opportunities for growth.
My vision is to help build a Busia where young people are empowered not merely as participants in political campaigns, but as drivers of economic growth, innovation and leadership.
Moving Beyond Youth Empowerment Rhetoric
For too long, conversations about youth have focused on short-term interventions. The future demands a different approach. Young people need skills, opportunities, markets, mentorship, access to information, technology and capital.
Real empowerment is not about dependency. It is about creating pathways to self-reliance and prosperity.
Preparing for the Digital Economy
The nature of work is changing. Technology is reshaping industries, creating new opportunities and redefining how businesses operate. The future economy will increasingly reward digital skills, innovation and adaptability.
I will support initiatives that promote:
- Digital literacy
- Coding and technology skills
- Artificial intelligence awareness
- Data and analytics training
- Remote work opportunities
- Digital entrepreneurship
- Access to digital infrastructure
Geography should never limit opportunity. A young person in Busia should be able to compete in the global economy from wherever they are.
Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Some of the most transformative businesses in the world started as ideas. Busia is full of innovative young people with the creativity and determination to solve problems and create value. What many lack is access to resources and support systems.
I will champion policies that encourage:
- Innovation hubs
- Business incubation programs
- Startup development
- Entrepreneurship training
- Access to financing
- Public-private partnerships
Bridging the Gap Between Education and Employment
One of the greatest frustrations facing young people today is the gap between education and economic opportunity. Many graduates leave school with qualifications but struggle to secure employment or establish businesses.
I will support stronger linkages between training institutions and the private sector through internship programs, apprenticeships and industry partnerships.
Sports, Arts and Culture
Young people's potential is not limited to formal employment. Sports, arts and creative industries represent significant economic opportunities that are often undervalued. I will support policies that invest in sports infrastructure, creative industries and cultural development as legitimate pathways to economic success.
Youth in Leadership
Young people must not only be beneficiaries of policy. They must be part of designing it. I will champion meaningful youth representation in governance, public institutions and decision-making processes.