Overview
The Murang'a Youth Service (MYS), initiated by the Murang'a County Government, is a transformative program aimed at empowering the county's youth through structured community engagement and skill development. Launched in October 2023, the program addresses challenges such as unemployment and social vices by enrolling young individuals in community service activities for two months, where they participate in tasks like urban cleaning and drainage maintenance. During this period, participants receive a daily stipend of KES 400, with KES 100 allocated directly to their parents, fostering family involvement and support.
The MYS is an initiative by the Murang'a County Government designed to empower youth through community service, vocational training, and business support. Participants engage in community service activities and receive training to enhance their skills and employability.
Participants are recruited through a transparent balloting process conducted across all 35 wards of Murang'a County, ensuring fairness and equal opportunity for all eligible youths aged between 18 and 35 years.
During the initial two-month community service phase, participants earn a daily stipend of KES 400, with KES 100 allocated to their parents. Afterward, they undergo a three-month TVET training, receive a seed capital of KES 15,000 upon completion, and enjoy a one-year waiver on county taxes to support their entrepreneurial endeavors.
The MYS program has positively impacted the community by engaging over 5,200 youths in meaningful activities, reducing unemployment, and promoting economic growth. Participants have contributed to cleaner urban centers and developed skills that enhance their employability and capacity for self-employment.
Following the community service phase, participants transition into a three-month Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) program, fully funded by the county government. This training equips them with practical skills in various trades, enhancing their employability and entrepreneurial potential. Upon successful completion, graduates receive a seed capital of KES 15,000 to initiate their own businesses, along with a one-year waiver on county taxes to support their entrepreneurial ventures. As of January 2025, the program has recruited its fifth cohort, bringing the total number of beneficiaries to over 5,200 youths, reflecting the county's commitment to youth empowerment and economic development.