By Adan Mohamed - Reporter
August 12, 2026 - As the world marks International Youth Day, Mandera County youths are calling for greater investment, empowerment and employment opportunities and meaningful participation in leadership and decision-making processes.
Despite differences in background, ambitions and aspirations, Mandera youth say they share a common challenge which is limited employment opportunities.
Speaking during International Youth Day activities, Mandera Youth Chairman Abdul Karim Hashim said unemployment remains one of the biggest challenges facing young people in the county, limiting their ability to contribute fully to economic and social development.
“No matter our background or aspirations, we have one common challenge — the lack of jobs. Young people want opportunities to work, develop their skills and contribute to the development of our communities,” said Hashim.
He called for greater recognition of young people as active participants in development rather than simply beneficiaries of government programmes.
Hashim said Mandera needs to see more young people taking active roles in leadership, community development and decision making.
“We need to see youthful residents becoming active in their communities and taking the lead in matters affecting young people. Youth should be at the forefront of leadership and development,” he said.
Mandera Youth Assembly Secretary Awal Mohamed said International Youth Day provides an opportunity to reflect on the challenges facing young people while recognizing that youth across different backgrounds share similar aspirations for a better future.
“Although we may come from different backgrounds and face different circumstances, our aspirations remain the same, we want opportunities, dignity, employment and a better future,” said Awal.
He said meaningful youth participation goes beyond attending meetings or being represented in programmes, noting that young people should be responsible citizens and agents of positive change within their communities.
Related articles
According to the youth leaders, meaningful participation means giving young people opportunities to contribute ideas, take responsibility and participate in decisions that affect their lives and communities.
The youth also urged Mandera County leaders to strengthen programmes aimed at empowering young people through skills development, entrepreneurship, access to finance, employment opportunities and mentorship.
They called for greater support for youth-led businesses and initiatives, arguing that many young people have skills and ideas but lack the resources and opportunities needed to turn them into sustainable livelihoods.
The youth further appealed to leaders to create platforms where young people can engage directly with decision-makers and contribute to the county's development agenda.
As Mandera joins the rest of the world in commemorating International Youth Day, the youth say their message is clear: they want to be part of shaping the future rather than simply waiting for it.
They expressed optimism that increased investment in youth empowerment, education, skills and employment will help unlock the potential of Mandera's young population.