President Ruto Announces Youth Recruitment for Climate Works Mtaani Initiative

By Robert Mutasi 

President William Ruto has unveiled a new initiative aimed at engaging Kenyan youth in climate action. 

Speaking on Monday, August 26, 2024, during the National Youth Service (NYS) pass-out ceremony in Gilgil, Nakuru County, President Ruto announced the launch of the "Climate Works Mtaani Initiative," a program designed to involve young people in environmental sustainability efforts across the country.

Addressing the assembled crowd, President Ruto emphasized the importance of youth participation in tackling the challenges posed by climate change.

He noted that the initiative would be a crucial step in not only creating employment opportunities but also in fostering a sense of responsibility among the youth toward environmental conservation.

In addition, the President said, "I want to announce that NYS will be supervising the cohort of young people that we will be recruiting under our Climate Works Mtaani Initiative."

He highlighted the role of the National Youth Service in guiding and mentoring the recruits, ensuring that they contribute effectively to the country’s climate action goals.

The Climate Works Mtaani Initiative is set to build on the foundation laid by the former Kazi Mtaani program, which was initiated by former President Uhuru Kenyatta.

While Kazi Mtaani focused on providing temporary employment to young people, particularly in urban areas, President Ruto’s new initiative takes a more specialized approach by integrating youth into climate-related projects.

President Ruto stated, "The goal of this program is to engage more youth in environmental sustainability, greening Kenya, and ensuring that we address climate change issues through the implementation of our existing climate action initiatives." 

He reiterated the government's commitment to involving the youth in efforts to combat climate change, stating that their energy and innovation are key to driving the country’s green agenda.

The initiative will involve activities such as tree planting, waste management, and other projects aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting renewable energy.

By engaging the youth in these projects, the government hopes to not only address environmental issues but also reduce youth unemployment, which remains a significant challenge in Kenya.

President Ruto’s announcement comes at a time when climate change is increasingly recognized as a critical global issue, with countries around the world taking steps to mitigate its impact. 

Kenya, with its diverse ecosystems and vulnerability to climate change, is seen as a key player in regional efforts to address these challenges.

As the Climate Works Mtaani Initiative gets underway, it is expected to create thousands of jobs for young people across the country while simultaneously contributing to Kenya’s environmental sustainability goals.

The program will be closely monitored by the NYS to ensure that it achieves its intended outcomes, furthering President Ruto’s broader agenda of economic empowerment and environmental stewardship.