The  ACT4SDGs Campaign is a global movement that mobilizes people, institutions and organizations to take action for the SDGs in their communities. As part of this campaign, the members and friends of Maundu Maseo Foundation-CBO request the governor of Makueni County to allocate funds for the construction of a low cost youth centre along the Nairobi Mombasa Highway.

According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics, Makueni County has a population of 987,653 people, of which 75% are below 35 years old. However, there is a lack of adequate facilities and services for the youth in the county, especially along the Nairobi Mombasa Highway. Youth living near this highway are faced by problems such as unemployment, crime, drug abuse, teenage pregnancy, and radicalization.

When youth are not empowered, several key issues can arise:

1. Lack of Self-Reliance: Empowerment helps youth become self-reliant. Without it, they may struggle to make decisions independently and may rely heavily on others for direction and support

2. Underutilized Potential: Empowered youth recognize their capabilities, self-determination, and worth. Without empowerment, this potential may remain untapped, limiting their personal and professional development.

3. Decreased Community Involvement: Empowered youth are often active contributors to their communities. Without empowerment, youth may be less likely to participate in community programs or take on leadership roles.

4. Risk of Negative Outcomes: Empowerment gives youth the confidence to take risks and understand that failure is a step toward progress. Without it, they may be more likely to fall into negative patterns such as drug abuse, prostitution, crime etcetera.

5. Limited Future Impact: The youth sector has the role of making changes that matter and maintaining cultures that positively impact our communities. Without empowerment, this influence on the future could be diminished.

A youth centre by the youth, for the youth,  would provide a safe and positive environment for the youth to learn new skills, express their talents, interact with their peers, and participate in enterprise development activities. It would also contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are a global agenda for social, economic, and environmental transformation by 2030.

In conclusion, youth empowerment is crucial for the success of individuals and communities. It helps young people overcome challenges, build brighter futures for themselves and their communities, and create a better world for all of us

Please sign our petition and share it with your friends and family. Together, we can make a difference for the present and future youth of Makueni County. Thank you for your support.