Makueni Youths Petition Assembly, Demand Creation of Advisory Board

By Ryan Mumo 

The Makueni University Students Association (MUSA) has petitioned the County Assembly of Makueni, citing persistent exclusion of young people from governance and public participation forums.

During a consultative meeting convened by the County Assembly’s Committee on Public Participation, Devolution, and County Governance, the student leaders expressed frustration that youth voices are often left out when critical county decisions are being made.

Daniel Sila, President of MUSA, explained that the association brings together university and TVET students from Makueni County studying across various institutions nationwide. However, he noted that their geographical spread has limited meaningful engagement with county processes.

“Most of our members are in different institutions across the country. When public participation forums are called, the only option we have is to engage online, which is not reliable as some comrades lack internet access. As a result, many issues affecting us are never fully represented,” said Sila.

He proposed that the county government adopt a model of holding targeted forums within institutions of higher learning where Makueni students are based, such as Pwani University and Technical University of Mombasa. This, he argued, would allow students to interact directly with officials and share their perspectives on governance matters.

Emmanuel Ndonye Muthama, a student of International Relations and Diplomacy and the lead petitioner, emphasized that while the county has invested in economic and social pillars, it has neglected the political pillar which is vital in giving youth a seat at the decision-making table.

“We don’t feel included in governance. That is why we are pushing for the establishment of a Youth Advisory Board that is empowered, dedicated, and mandated to advise the county government on matters affecting young people,” Muthama stated.

He further urged the county to institutionalize annual youth dialogues where the government can explain its initiatives and challenges directly to young people, while also listening to their input. Additionally, MUSA requested structured partnerships between the county government and youth organizations to enhance collaboration.

The petitioners received a positive reception from the Assembly committee chaired by Mbitini MCA Bernard Mutua.

“We have listened to their grievances and we promise to prepare a comprehensive report that will be tabled before the Assembly. Once passed, we shall push the Department of Youth to implement the recommendations, including creation of forums tailored to students’ schedules and the proposed Youth Advisory Board,” said Mutual.

He acknowledged that young people constitute 33 percent of Makueni’s population and stressed that the county cannot progress without giving them a genuine voice in decision-making.

The petition marks a significant step in efforts by Makueni youth to assert their place in governance, with the proposed Youth Advisory Board emerging as the centerpiece of their demands.