Kwale youth, community members and local leaders
By Shaban Omar
The Children Empowerment and Development (CHED) Community-Based Organization has launched a four-month talent development initiative, the Broad-Based Talent Initiative (BBTI), to address rising youth crime and insecurity in the region.
The program aims to nurture skills and provide meaningful engagement for youth aged 13 to 24 years and young mothers from maskanis (informal street gathering spots), where crime and drug-related activities are prevalent.
Supported by We-World and co-funded by the European Union under the Kujenga Amani Project, the initiative seeks to promote security and stability in vulnerable communities.
According to CHED officer Eid Bakuli, the program will be rolled out in Ngombeni, one of Kwale County’s most affected areas in terms of insecurity.
He noted that many young people in the region have been drawn into juvenile gangs, drug abuse, and other criminal activities, hindering community peace and development.
“Ngombeni has been a hotspot for crime, with many youth falling into dangerous paths due to a lack of proper mentorship and opportunities,” said Bakuli.
CHED officer Eid Bakuli
He explained that the BBTI program will help young people discover and develop their talents to create better futures for themselves and their communities.
The initiative will focus on creative arts, music, sports, and entrepreneurship, providing youth with avenues to explore their potential and earn a living.
Through mentorship sessions, skill-building workshops, and community engagement activities, the program aims to steer youth away from crime while fostering a sense of belonging and purpose.
“Most of these young people turn to crime because they feel neglected. When we show them that their talents matter and can be a source of income, they will be less likely to engage in illegal activities,” Bakuli emphasized.
He added that the program will collaborate with local leaders, parents, and security officials to create long-term solutions to youth crime by linking them to various opportunities.
Community and Leadership Support
County Peace and Security Committee Chairperson Mwanakombo Jarumani said the initiative aligns with the county’s broader efforts to promote peace and stability by tackling unemployment, a key driver of youth crime.
She emphasized that providing alternative opportunities for the youth can significantly reduce their vulnerability to criminal activities and radicalization.
Jarumani assured that the county would support the program to ensure its successful implementation and called on community members to encourage young people to take advantage of the opportunities presented.
Kwale Peace Committee Chairperson Mwanakombo Jarumani
“This is a collaborative effort, and we need everyone on board to make it work. When young people are engaged in productive activities, our communities become safer and more prosperous,” she said.
She further noted that sustainable change can only be achieved through joint efforts between the public and private sectors to create a conducive environment for youth employment and entrepreneurship.
Despite persistent challenges, Jarumani acknowledged that security in Ngombeni and Matuga Sub- County has significantly improved.
She attributed this progress to consistent efforts by security agencies, local leaders, and community members in promoting peace and addressing crime-related issues.
She highlighted proactive measures such as regular security patrols, community policing, and awareness campaigns as key factors in enhancing safety in the area.
Jarumani also commended the youth for embracing positive change and participating in development programs instead of engaging in crime.
“The youth have shown great commitment to turning their lives around, and we must continue supporting them through skill development programs and job creation initiatives,” she said.
She urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by reporting any suspicious activities to sustain the security improvements made in the region.
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