At least 365 Uasin Gishu youth who had been sponsored by the County Government to acquire driving skills were awarded their motor driving licenses. Some who were operating motorcycles also got their licenses to upgrade road user operations.

The youth are part of the 900 who were sponsored by the County Executive in collaboration with Members of the County Assembly, to undertake driving courses at Berur Driving School.

Speaking as he awarded them the certificates, Uasin Gishu Governor Dr Jonathan Bii, EGH, said this is part of his government’s plan focused on youth empowerment, as guided by his development blueprint’s pillar number five; youth empowerment.

Dr. Bii said his government is sensitive to the fact that unemployment is a global challenge. “With the unemployment program posing a big challenge to every economy across the world, my government is devising alternative ways to empower our young people. This sponsorship is among the plans.”

Deputy Governor Eng. John Barorot asked the newly accredited drivers to be diligent in their careers, be smart and surely, they will rise the ranks and earn themselves good employment. He was particular that they should not drive under the influence of alcohol or any drug.

County Commissioner, Dr. Eddyson Nyale, said; Uasin Gishu youth are privileged to have leaders who come together to come up with programs to benefit the youth. This does not happen all the time.”

Leader of Majority, Julius Sang, said; “The County assembly and the executive will work to ensure that youth empowerment programs are budgeted to attain the core mandate that is of empowering our youth.”

Gilbert Lagat, chair of the Assembly’s Committee on Youth Affairs said; “The license is a professional certification for responsible road usage, therefore, be sober and obey traffic rules.”

County Executive for Youth Affairs and Sports, Eng. Lucy Ng’endo said the Department is working on the Uasin Gishu Youth Policy, a framework that directs empowerment programs such as the driving school sponsorship.

Chief Officer for Youth and Sports, Jelagat Tirop, said the Department is working on several other empowerment programs, including sports programs.

Member of the County Assembly for Kipsomba Ward, Mary Gorety had a piece of advice for beneficiaries of empowerment programs; “When supported, take care of the equipment because the reason was actually to help and empower you to eke out a living.”

Mary Mwihaki from Huruma Ward is a beneficiary and was elated: “The County has given us tools to get employment. We thank the County Government and our MCAs for this sponsorship.”

“I used to drive boda boda but I can now graduate to vehicles,” said another beneficiary, Isaac Misoi from Kiplombe Ward.

MCAs Richard Kipkirong (Ngeria), Julius Kiptoo (Megun), Nicholas Kipruto (Tapsagoi), Kimani Wanjohi (Huruma), Moses Kebenei (Simat/Kapseret), Nathan Malamoch (Segero/Barsombe), Patrick Kimeli (Moi’s Bridge) witnessed the youth drive vehicles to signify qualification.

Chief Of Staff, Nicholas Chepkwony, Directors Meshack Chemwor (Youth Affairs), Nicholas Busienei (Sports), Sila Terikin (Governor’s Communication), Musa Mutai (Protocol), Mukolwe Henry (Administrative Director – Sports), Assistant Director, Viola Korir, were among senior county officers who were present at the event.