Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. has launched a countywide youth mentorship programme aimed at nurturing a new generation of ethical and competent leaders through structured training and direct exposure to county governance. 
By Governor Press,
WOTE, July 28 — Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. has launched a countywide youth mentorship programme aimed at nurturing a new generation of ethical and competent leaders through structured training and direct exposure to county governance.
Speaking during a training session attended by youth representatives from all 30 wards in Wote on Tuesday, Governor Mutula said the initiative is designed to equip young people with leadership skills while giving them practical experience in how county government operates.
As part of the programme, the county will appoint Youth Champions in every government department to mentor young people and guide them on leadership, governance, and public service.
The governor challenged the ward representatives to uphold the values of leadership and integrity enshrined in Chapter Six of the Constitution, saying the county's future depends on responsible and accountable young leaders.
"The youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are leaders of today. We must prepare them with the right values, skills, and opportunities to serve the public effectively," Mutula said.
During the engagement, the youth representatives called for greater inclusion in county development programmes, increased investment in sports, stronger economic empowerment initiatives, and the mainstreaming of youth issues across all government departments.
Governor Mutula also encouraged young people to form registered groups to enable them to access financial support through the Makueni County Empowerment Fund (MCEF), saying organized groups stand a better chance of benefiting from government empowerment programmes.
The training covered key areas including leadership development, youth enterprise, sports development, prevention of drug and substance abuse, gender-based violence awareness, county youth programmes, donor-funded opportunities, and boda boda mapping.
The mentorship initiative is being implemented by the Makueni County Department of Gender, Children, Youth, Sports and Social Services under the leadership of Eng. Sebastian Kyoni, as part of the county government's efforts to empower young people and strengthen their participation in governance and development.
