President William Ruto’s aide Farouk Kibet has highlighted the growing role of the tuk-tuk sector in creating employment and improving the livelihoods of young people across Kenya.
Kibet spoke during a tuk-tuk empowerment programme held at the Approved Schools Grounds in Lurambi, Kakamega County, where he joined Lurambi MP Bishop Titus Khamala in supporting an initiative targeting youth economic empowerment.
In his message, Kibet said tuk-tuks have become an important source of employment for young people, helping them earn a living while providing affordable and convenient transport services to communities.
Photo|Farouk Kibet in Lurambi Kakamega
He noted that the sector goes beyond transportation, arguing that it contributes to economic activity by creating opportunities for drivers, owners, mechanics, traders and other people whose businesses depend on the transport industry.
The empowerment programme was presented as part of efforts to equip young people with sustainable economic opportunities and enable them to become self-reliant.
Kibet said empowering youth with practical opportunities was essential in strengthening household incomes and building stronger local economies.
The Lurambi initiative brought together a number of political leaders and stakeholders, signalling the growing political attention being given to youth empowerment and the informal transport sector.
Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa, Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot, Hon. David Ndakwa, Likuyani MP Innocent Mugabe, Hon. Oscar Nabulindo and Hon. Emmanuel Wangwe were among those present.Members of the Kakamega County Assembly, tuk-tuk sector leaders and various political aspirants also attended the programme.
The event comes at a time when youth unemployment remains a major concern, with many young people turning to small businesses and the informal sector to create their own sources of income.
Photo|Farouk Kibet and Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa
The tuk-tuk industry has emerged as one of the most accessible transport businesses for young entrepreneurs, particularly in urban centres and rural trading centres where demand for affordable short-distance transport remains high.
The empowerment programme therefore seeks to strengthen the sector while giving beneficiaries an opportunity to build sustainable livelihoods.Kibet’s message places youth economic empowerment at the centre of efforts to promote self-reliance, with the tuk-tuk sector seen as one of the avenues through which young people can participate in the economy and improve their financial independence.