Earlier today, the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KNCCI) CEO Mr. Samuel Matonda paid a courtesy visit to the National Youth Council (NYC) CEO Roy Sasaka Telewa.
In a meeting held at the Council’s office, the two CEO’s agreed to work closely to establish and enhance programmes that will benefit the youth especially in the trade sector.
The Chamber CEO highlighted that Kenyan youth have the potential to transform the country to an economical viable nation if fully supported. “Youth have been leaders of tomorrow for so long. It is time we change this narrative. Youth shouldn’t’ be leaders of tomorrow but leaders of today,” expressed CEO Matonda.
Mr. Matonda also recognized that much has been done to empower the youth indicating that priority has been given to them exclusively in the digitized sectors not only ICT but also actively participating in other sectors such as agriculture, transport and logistics, micro-small businesses among others.
He however stated the importance of conducting evaluation to assess the impact of existing programmes before initiating new ones.
While acknowledging the role of the KNCCI in supporting youth, the Chamber CEO mentioned that there exists a Youth in Business Committee within the Kenya Chamber of Commerce which actively empowers and mentors young entrepreneurs in the country
On his part, NYC CEO Roy Sasaka underscored the need for youth to be given opportunity and support to participate in all development programmes, be it political, economic or societal spheres.
“Article 55 of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010 gives emphasize on youth inclusivity in all matters of country’s interest. It is therefore our duty as patriotic citizens to ensure implementation of youth’s rights as stipulated in the constitution,” underlined CEO Sasaka.
Moving forward, the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the National Youth Council committed to forge a strong working relation and sign a Memoranda of Understanding to successfully develop and implement youth programmes in the country.