Kenyan Youth Enhancing Political Engagement, says Senator Okenyuri

BY ERIC ABUGA

Nominated Senator Essy Okenyuri emphasizes that Kenyan youth are at the forefront of community development and promoting political engagement through their voices. 

She believes that the youth in the country are driving entrepreneurship, actively promoting digital transformation, and advocating for climate action.

“While many face significant challenges such as unemployment, limited access to higher education, a lack of opportunities, and an unfavorable environment that restricts their potential, they have pushed themselves to their limits and have not succumbed to despair,” she states.

Okenyuri notes that the youth continue to demonstrate that they are agents of the positive change the world desperately needs. 

“On this year’s International Youth Day, we celebrate the resilience, creativity, and energy of young people worldwide.”

The Senator stresses the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to break down existing barriers hindering youth growth, enabling their contribution to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

“The government, private sector, and all relevant stakeholders must make intentional efforts to address the challenges affecting our youth.”

To create an environment conducive to youth development, Okenyuri expressed her desire for a future where every young person, regardless of their background or status, has the opportunity to be heard and to contribute to the growth of both the country and the world. 

By incorporating youth priorities into local and regional strategies and fostering partnerships with youth organizations, authorities can work alongside young people to transform their ideas into impactful solutions.

This year’s International Youth Day will highlights the essential role of local and regional governments. The theme for International Youth Day 2025, “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond,” emphasizes the unique role of youth in translating global ambitions into community-driven realities.