By Tony Wafula, Bungoma
A pioneering initiative focused on youth empowerment was recently launched in Bungoma County.
Religious leaders from different faiths have come together to introduce the ‘Youth and Skills Development Program’ designed to provide young people with skills that will help them achieve sustainable livelihoods.
The program aims not only to equip youths with valuable practical abilities but also to promote peaceful coexistence between Christians and Muslims in the community.
The initiative offers training in a variety of practical skills, including photography, social media management, beading and other creative arts.
These skills are geared toward fostering self-sufficiency and addressing the pressing issues that youth face, such as unemployment and poverty.
The communication department of the program allows participants to register for the free training and begin their journey toward skill development.
This program brings together youth from various mosques, churches and educational institutions in Bungoma.
The diverse participation reflects the interfaith nature of the initiative and the shared commitment to building a stronger, more united community.
Joy Wandabwa, a representative, Program for Christian Muslim Relations in Africa (PROCMURA), emphasized the dual focus of the program; to empower the youth and promote peaceful coexistence between Christians and Muslims.
“We are not just teaching practical skills; we are fostering an environment of mutual respect and understanding between different faiths. This program is a platform for young people to learn not just technical skills but also to engage in conversations about tolerance and peace-building in our communities,” she stated.
Wandabwa also pointed out the need for youth involvement in tackling critical societal challenges, including unemployment, poverty, radicalization and violence extremism.
She believes that engaging youth in meaningful discussions on these issues will contribute significantly to the long-term development of Bungoma County.
“Involving young people in these critical conversations is crucial for addressing the root causes of conflict and fostering an inclusive society,” she added.
The program also garnered support from local religious leaders, including Imam Malik Mohammed Kipsang, who highlighted the importance of peace and unity.
He cautioned the youth against being misled by negative influences and called for greater vigilance in safeguarding their future.
“We want the youth to be the torchbearers of peace in this region. They are the ones who will shape the future of this community, and they must be armed with knowledge, skills, and a strong sense of unity,” he stated.
Similarly, Reverend John Bwire, an Anglican priest, stressed the responsibility of religious leaders to lead by example in promoting peaceful coexistence.
“Religious leaders must be at the forefront of fostering peace. The youth are the backbone of our faith communities; they are the ones who will carry the message of unity and understanding to the next generation. By empowering them with both spiritual and practical tools, we can help them become effective messengers of peace and tolerance,” Bwire said.
The program specifically targets young people because they represent the majority of the populations in churches and mosques and they are most affected by the social challenges facing the community. They also possess the energy, enthusiasm, and creativity necessary to bring about change.
