Machakos County Communication Adviser, Nico Nyamai in a Past Function. Photo Facebook Courtesy. 
By Ryan Mumo
The Machakos Youth Empowerment Programme, a flagship initiative by Governor Wavinya Ndeti’s administration, has been lauded as a transformative force in tackling youth unemployment and poverty across the county.
Speaking to the media, the County Communication Adviser, Nico Nyamai, praised the programme for its tangible impact, describing it as “a game changer in youth empowerment and skills development.”
“The county government under Governor Wavinya Ndeti is prioritizing young people and ensuring that no one is left behind,” Nyamai said. “Through the Machakos Youth Empowerment Programme, hundreds of youths — especially from less privileged backgrounds — have been trained in various technical and vocational skills.”
The initiative, which mirrors the structure of the National Youth Service, focuses on equipping participants with practical knowledge in areas such as plumbing, mechanics, and hairdressing, among others.
According to Nyamai, the first cohort of trainees has successfully completed their courses and is set to graduate on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at the Governor’s Office (White House) in Machakos.
“What makes this programme exceptional,” he noted, “is that each graduate will receive startup equipment relevant to their area of study. This will help them to immediately put their skills into practice, create income, and become self-reliant.”
He added that the county government plans to recruit another 1,500 youths in the next intake, a move aimed at expanding the programme’s reach and impact across all sub-counties.
Nyamai also highlighted other ongoing youth-focused initiatives such as the Governor Wavinya Cup, now in its third edition, which continues to unearth and nurture sporting talent among the youth.
“Our youths are not only gaining skills but also excelling in sports and leadership. The Machakos Youth Empowerment Programme is proof that Governor Wavinya Ndeti’s administration is walking the talk on empowering young people,” he stated.
Addressing recent misinformation circulating on social media regarding delayed payments of casual workers, Nyamai clarified that the issue involved a private contractor — not the county government.
“Some media reports claimed that casual workers had not been paid for five months, which was misleading,” he explained. “Those workers were employed by a contractor, and once the county intervened, the contractor cleared all pending payments. Governor Wavinya does not tolerate any form of exploitation.”
Nyamai urged Machakos residents to always verify information before spreading it, emphasizing that Governor Wavinya’s leadership is grounded in fairness, transparency, and people-centered service delivery.
“As a county, we’re witnessing real transformation. The youth are gaining skills, employment, and hope for a better future. This programme is truly reshaping lives,” he concluded.
