Makueni: At least 300 youths in Makueni County have been trained on essential soft and digital skills through a youth empowerment program organized by Brighter Monday in collaboration with the Anita Mbinya Foundation.

According to Kenya News Agency, the youths who benefited from the program were drawn from Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC), Wote Campus, and Makueni Vocational and Technical Training Institute (MIVEC). The initiative, spearheaded by Anita Mbinya, the spouse of Governor Mutula Kilonzo, aims to equip young people with skills crucial for employability and entrepreneurship, thus fostering self-reliance.

Mrs. Mutula, who also serves as the Executive Director of the Foundation, encouraged the participants to apply the skills acquired and to embrace innovation and technology. She announced that the program would continue for the next two years with an aim to empower youths with vital skills. “Our young people need to be thought about, they need to be involved, that is why Anita Mbinya Foundation has stepped in,” she stated during a training session held at Wote Social Hall.

Hilda Bushenga, the Chief Executive Officer of Brighter Monday, expressed that the program is designed to equip young people with life-changing skills for personal growth and entry into the competitive job market. Bushenga advised the youths to maintain a positive outlook, self-confidence, and humility to overcome modern challenges, particularly in the job market. She highlighted the potential of the internet as a tool for countless opportunities if used positively and productively.

Also present at the event were Sarah Ndegwa, Managing Director of Brighter Monday, and Boniface Muting’a, Youth Director of Makueni County.