The government has announced plans to hire more youth under the Climate WorX Mtaani initiative.
Climate WorX Mtaani is a labour-intensive employment program targeting Kenyan youth and women, fostering climate resilience and economic recovery.
The initiative was officially launched with the involvement of National Government Administration Officers (NGAOs), local leaders, youth, and Community-Based Organizations (CBOs).
The Ministry of Environment has revealed that it will increase the number of the youth engaged in the programme to address the emerging challenges.
Environment CS Aden Duale said the government will allocate more resources and personnel to manage, clean, and maintain sewer systems.
Duale stated that the ministry will increase manpower for waste collection and promote community-based recycling programs.
Additionally, the government has announced plans to increase community involvement in tree planting programmes.
The CS also said reclamation of riparian needs to be undertaken.
Payment of Selected Youth
Selected youth work on alternate weeks, two weeks on and two weeks off.
Youth will receive Ksh 500 per day, while youth supervisors will receive Ksh550 per day.
Payments are made via mobile money transfer at the end of the two-week work shift.
Challenges Facing Climate WorX Mtaani
The ministry highlighted several challenges, including uncontrolled sewage discharge, which leads to water contamination and environmental degradation.
It noted that structures upstream and around industrial areas continue to exist within riparian zones, contributing to environmental strain.
Heavy rainfall causes erosion, carrying dirt, debris, and pollutants from upstream areas into water sources.
Also Read: Ksh500 Per Day and 2-Weeks Shift: How Climate WorX Mtaani Initiative Works
The ministry also observed a surge in illegal waste dumping in previously cleared areas during the Christmas festive period.
Improper waste disposal remains a significant concern, further polluting the environment.
Limited access to affordable renewable energy forces reliance on fossil fuels, increasing pollution and accelerating climate change.
Additionally, many communities, particularly those in informal settlements, are unprepared for climate-related disasters, making them highly vulnerable.
Also Read: Govt Announces New Kazi Mtaani Initiative With 13,000 Job Opportunities
Impacts on the Youth
Duale said the initiative has had an impact on the youth, particularly in slum areas where job opportunities are limited.
According to the CS, the initiative provides direct employment for thousands of young people.
It has also empowered youth through leadership opportunities, especially in managing local environment projects and climate change.
Further, Duale emphasized that the programme has created pathways for entrepreneurship where youth are encouraged to develop green businesses around waste management and tree planting.
“The initiative has not only provided income to the young people but instilled a sense of responsibility towards the environment and the community,” reads a statement from the Ministry.
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