Vihiga: Governor Dr. Wilber Ottichilo has urged young people in the county to shift their mindset from job-seeking to job creation. Speaking at the Maragoli Hills Ecosystem Restoration Conference held at Friends Primary School Ideleri, Dr. Ottichilo encouraged the youth to take charge of their future through self-employment and innovation.

According to Kenya News Agency, Dr. Ottichilo was responding to a question from a young participant about how the county government is addressing youth unemployment. He emphasized that self-employment is the best form of employment and stressed the county’s commitment to supporting youth-led initiatives that demonstrate innovation and sustainability. The governor highlighted ongoing environmental efforts, such as the preparation of over 162 beehives for installation at Maragoli Hills, as part of ecosystem restoration.

Dr. Ottichilo also revealed plans to establish a honey processing plant, aiming to create job opportunities for the local community, especially the youth. County Director of Environment, Energy, and Natural Resources, Aquila Lwanga, echoed the governor’s sentiments by urging the youth to form organized groups focused on environmental conservation or tree nursery initiatives. Lwanga emphasized that government funding and support are more accessible to well-organized and visionary youth groups.

She highlighted the importance of moving beyond traditional farming methods, encouraging young people to explore eco-friendly enterprises like apiculture (bee-keeping) for sustainable livelihoods. She noted that such enterprises could drive sustainable income and employment, marking a shift toward non-traditional agricultural sectors.