Lamu youths raise alarm over elephant invasions, joblessness at Hongwe Baraza

Kenya, May 24, 2026 - Youths in Lamu County have raised concerns over rising human-wildlife conflict, unemployment and poor public services during the fifth Youth Baraza organised by the Lamu Youth Assembly in Sinambio, Hongwe Ward.

The forum brought together young people, security officials, the area Ward Administrator and community stakeholders in what organisers described as a constructive engagement on challenges facing the youth and the wider community.

Among the key concerns raised was the growing invasion of farms by elephants, which residents said was destroying crops, threatening livelihoods and creating insecurity among farming communities.

“Youths called for urgent intervention and sustainable measures to protect communities while promoting coexistence with wildlife,” the assembly said in a statement after the meeting.

Participants also lamented the lack of football and sports infrastructure in the area, saying the situation was limiting talent development and denying young people recreational opportunities.

The youths further highlighted low participation of girls and young women in sports activities, linking it to rising cases of teenage pregnancies and lack of mentorship and empowerment opportunities.

Access to clean and safe water also featured prominently during the discussions, with residents urging authorities to improve water supply systems to ease the burden on families.

Health services came under sharp criticism, with youths complaining about shortage of doctors in local dispensaries, especially during weekends, as well as delayed reporting and early departures by some healthcare workers.

“The community called for improved service delivery to ensure residents receive timely and quality healthcare,” the statement said.

Youth unemployment dominated much of the discussions, with participants expressing frustrations over limited access to jobs linked to Lamu Port projects and what they termed lack of fairness during police recruitment exercises.

The youths called for transparency and deliberate efforts to create employment opportunities for local young people.

Residents also decried the poor state of roads in the area, saying improved infrastructure would boost trade, mobility and access to essential services.

Farmers attending the forum raised concerns over alleged unequal distribution of farming inputs, particularly cotton seeds, saying many farmers were left out despite growing interest in agriculture.

Education challenges were also highlighted, with youths accusing authorities of inequitable distribution of bursaries and scholarships, which they said had denied some deserving students educational opportunities.

In response, the Ward Administrator acknowledged many of the concerns and updated residents on ongoing county government interventions, particularly water projects.

The administrator also assured residents that concerns regarding staffing and service delivery at local health facilities would be followed up.

Security officials present at the forum pledged to engage relevant security committees and wildlife authorities to address the persistent elephant invasions affecting farmers.

They also praised the Youth Baraza initiative, describing it as “a structured and impactful platform” that allows young people to engage leaders constructively and voice concerns in an organised manner.

“Such forums provide an avenue for sober conversations, dialogue and problem-solving,” the officials said, adding that youth engagement was key to addressing frustrations that often lead to unrest.

The Lamu Youth Assembly said it remains committed to creating inclusive spaces where young people can meaningfully participate in governance, development and decision-making processes.

The initiative is implemented by The Oslo Center with support from Vänsterns Internationella Forum.