The Department of Finance and Economic Planning, in collaboration with the Department of Administration, on Thursday convened a multi-sectoral consultative meeting at the County Chambers.

The session, chaired by the County Executive Committee Member for Finance and Economic Planning, Micah Rogony, focused on preparations for the upcoming County Ward Economic Forum and Open Day.

The meeting brought together County Executives, Chief Officers, and Directors from various departments to deliberate on key activities planned for the event. A major highlight was the unveiling of Fanikisha Vijana, a flagship youth empowerment program under Governor Dr Jonathan Bii Chelilim’s administration.

The Fanikisha Vijana Program seeks to create sustainable job opportunities for young people by blending aspects of internship programs with the Kazi Kwa Vijana initiative. Through a ward-based selection process, residents will nominate 20 youth per ward, ensuring inclusivity by also providing opportunities for Persons with Disabilities.

Speaking during the meeting, CECM Rogony emphasized the importance of fairness and inclusivity at the grassroots level.

“Ward Administrators should capture the right demographics of potential youth to ensure targeted empowerment,” he stated.

The upcoming Economic Forum will feature activities such as talent showcases, public participation forums, registration drives, and the mobilization of government services. In addition to youth-focused initiatives, the Forum will also prioritize the registration of elderly citizens into the Social Health Assurance (SHA) program and promote enrollment in the Affordable Housing scheme, aligning with the county’s broader social and economic empowerment agenda.

On her part, CECM for Administration Public Service Management and devolution, Ms Janet Kurgat, lauded the program as both timely and transformative.

“We all have the capacity to deliver on the Governor’s agenda. This is our time to brand our county, highlight our Governor’s achievements, and fully support this program,” she said.

CECM for Youth, Sports, ICT, and Innovation, Robert Kemei, also underscored the importance of youth participation in the upcoming forum, noting that the county is committed to harnessing innovation and talent for sustainable growth.

In attendance were County Attorney Sylvester Metto,Chief Officers; Eliud Kipkorir(Finance),Ambrose Tarus (Administration), Nickson Cheplong (Economic Planning), and CPA Victorine Kapkiai (Youth and Sports).