The office of Senator in Kiambu, led by Karungo Thang’wa, has reported that nearly 600 Kenyans have applied for a single photographer and video position in the county advertised in January.
This follows an earlier advertisement on January 25, when the office announced it was seeking a photographer who could capture moments in harsh conditions, such as protests.
According to the county senator, Karungo Thang’wa, the high numbers signal the scale of youth unemployment in the country.
“My office posted an advertisement seeking a Photographer and Video Editor, a single position. The advert was intentionally candid about the nature of the role: the successful candidate would be required to document public interest activities, including in environments that can be volatile and unpredictable,” read part of the statement shared by Senator Thang’wa.
600 apply for a photographer job in the office of Karungo Thang’wa
Despite the challenging working conditions outlined in the advert, the job has attracted a number of applicants who are interested in the offer, even in difficult working environments.
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Out of the 576 applications received, 533 were from male applicants, while 43 were from female applicants for a single job vacancy.
In the advert, applicants were informed that the role would require documenting public interest activities, often in unpredictable and politically sensitive environments.
Requirements included:
- Have a strong portfolio, professional, and creative
- Candidates should not fearthe police or tear gas
- They should be able to operate a camera with one hand while navigating volatile situations with the other
- Calmness under pressure and adherence to tight deadlines were essential
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A Call to end Unemployment in the country
Commenting on the overwhelming number of applications received, Senator Karungo has highlighted that the youth unemployment situation in the country should not be ignored.
“These numbers are not just remarkable; they are a strong signal of the scale of youth unemployment in the country. Nearly 600 qualified young Kenyans are competing for one job. This is a situation to address, not a statistic to brag about,” stated senator Karungo Thangwa.
Senator Karungo also called on the national government to promptly address youth unemployment in the country, stating that Kenyan youth are not afraid and are desperate for opportunities.
“I demand that the National Government reconsider the youth employment policy immediately. The information before us is clear: the programs are failing the very generation for which they were intended. Kenya’s youth deserve meaningful opportunities.”
The senator has also reassured that his office will do the necessary to help the applicants fight unemployment.
“Your applications will remain part of a valuable talent pool, and my office will continue to explore opportunities to engage and support you wherever possible. My office will continue to do its part by creating opportunities where possible, supporting young professionals, and advocating for policies that empower our youth.”
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