President William Ruto, during a developmental tour in Nakuru County on Monday, July 15, 2024 hinted at the potential resurrection of the Kazi Mtaani initiative previously championed by former President Uhuru Kenyatta, signaling a renewed focus on youth employment opportunities.
Acknowledging the public’s desire for the program’s return, Ruto declared, “There are women here who have expressed their interest in Kazi Mtaani. I announce that starting next week, 500 individuals will be engaged in this initiative right here.”
He added, “This move aims to enhance employment prospects for our youth, ensuring more individuals can access job opportunities.”
Initially discontinued in 2022 due to alleged misuse of public funds, Kazi Mtaani offers eligible Kenyan youth the chance to participate in cleaning government and public spaces in exchange for a daily wage.
While critiquing the previous administration’s handling of the program, Ruto emphasized the need for dignified employment avenues, highlighting the importance of constructing affordable housing as a contemporary job opportunity for the youth.
The revival of Kazi Mtaani, as per the President’s directive, will involve engaging 500 youth from each region, potentially expanding beyond Nakuru Town, although specifics on nationwide implementation remain undisclosed. This initiative aligns with the Kenya Kwanza administration’s broader strategy to combat unemployment, complementing existing efforts such as digital job creation, human labor export, and affordable housing schemes.