Kibera spirit meets devolution as counties rally behind youth tech agenda
Nyanza
By
David Njaaga
| Aug 05, 2025
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga signs Ugatuzi Wall, an initiative SHOFCO being used to collect youth's views ahead of Devolution Conference to be held in the county. [Winfrey Owino, Standard]
A grassroots organisation founded in Kibera will co-host this year’s International Youth Day in Homa Bay on August 12, as part of a national campaign to equip youth with digital skills and expand innovation opportunities across marginalised communities.
Shining Hope for Communities, known as SHOFCO, is partnering with the Homa Bay County Government and the Council of Governors to host the event.
Part of the programme will include the launch of new initiatives targeting job creation, technology access and youth enterprise development.
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga explained that the partnership reflects the county’s commitment to positioning young people at the centre of Kenya’s economic agenda.
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“Homa Bay is proud to host this year’s International Youth Day. This event is not just a celebration but a platform to highlight the potential of young people in transforming our economy and future,” noted Wanga, adding, “Together with SHOFCO and the Council of Governors we are giving youth the tools, networks and visibility they deserve.”
The event will take place in Homa Bay town, featuring exhibitions, a youth innovation contest, panel discussions and county-level policy forums on entrepreneurship, climate response and digital inclusion.
SHOFCO Chief Executive Officer Kennedy Odede observed that the partnership shows the growing ability of community movements to shape national policy and development priorities.
“Young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow they are the solution-makers of today,” explained Odede.
“With the right partnerships they can build businesses, lead communities and drive sustainable change. International Youth Day is a chance to centre their voices and invest in their potential. Youth do not belong in the margins,” he added.
He noted SHOFCO will also roll out new digital inclusion efforts focused on technology training, innovation hubs and local job pathways in underserved counties.
Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, chairperson of the Council of Governors Planning Committee, noted that counties have a duty to champion youth inclusion and economic opportunity at the grassroots.
“Youth development cannot be left to the national government alone. Counties are where solutions meet the people,” explained Kahiga, noting, “Through this partnership we are setting the standard for what youth-centred development can look like.”
The event is expected to attract more than 2,000 participants including students, entrepreneurs, county officials and civil society groups.
It will also introduce a civic platform known as Ugatuzi Wall which will collect youth voices and demands in the lead-up to the Devolution Conference to be held from Monday, August 12 to Thursday, August 15.
The event will also showcase personal stories of young people who have benefited from the organisation’s empowerment work in informal settlements and rural communities.
“Young people are already driving change in their communities.Through this collaboration we are reaffirming our commitment to equipping them with tools and opportunities to lead,” observed Odero.
SHOFCO has established youth training and enterprise programmes in over 30 counties including scholarships, vocational support, small business grants and grassroots sporting activities.