Youth empowerment took centre stage in Uasin Gishu on Wednesday as stakeholders gathered at the County Social Hall for the closure of the Socio-Emotional Skills Training (SEST) Programme, implemented through the KISIP–NYOTA Project Collaboration.

The event brought together county and national government officials, trainers, and beneficiaries from the seven selected settlements of Kipkaren, Shaurii, Mailinne, Kasarani, KK, Mwanzo and Segero, in an event to celebrate the successful completion of the programme and its impact in equipping young people with practical skills, resilience, and pathways to sustainable livelihoods.

Deputy Governor Evans Kapkea led the county delegation, joined by Ms. Zena Kirui from the State Department for Informal Settlements (KISIP) and Ms. Edith Achieng from the State Department – NYOTA.

“Those certificates you receive today are more than recognition of your achievement. They are a call to purpose and responsibility.”

“Let (these certificates) remind you that you have the capacity to shape your destiny, uplift your families, and become catalysts for transformation within your communities”, reiterated the Deputy Governor. “The future of Uasin Gishu will be determined by how effectively we nurture the potential of our people, especially our youth.”

“The County Government of Uasin Gishu has remained steadfast in its commitment to creating opportunities that empower young people to innovate, create enterprises and realise their aspirations featured in nguzo kumi.

The ceremony featured community testimonials, trainer and beneficiary reflections, and a review of programme highlights and achievements.

Officials outlined commitments to integrate SEST into county programmes to ensure the gains are sustained beyond the project cycle.

Ms Kirui praised the county and national government’s commitment to expanding youth-centered initiatives that foster resilience, skills development, and economic opportunity.

Speaking during the event, leaders commended the collaboration between KISIP and NYOTA for addressing both technical and socio-emotional needs of youth, noting that such an approach is key to building self-reliance and reducing vulnerability in informal settlements.

The programme concluded with a certificate award ceremony for trainers and beneficiaries of over 400 youth.

County Executive for Lands, Physical Planning, Housing and Urban Development, Edward Sawe, Chief Officers Ms. Mary Kerich (Housing and Urban Development), her counterpart for Lands and Physical Planning Mr. Nathan Korir, and Director of Housing and Urban Development Ms. Beatrice Menjo, were among the senior officers present.