Amid growing speculation about the return of the Kazi Mtaani programme, the Machakos County Government is solidifying this prospect by launching a mass recruitment drive focused on youth employment.
The Wavinya Ndeti-led administration has announced plans to hire 1,000 casual laborers over the next 12 months to participate in a county-wide clean-up initiative.
The programme, dubbed “Ng’arisha Mtaa na Governor Wavinya Ndeti,” seeks to employ youth aged 18 to 35 in a project dedicated to enhancing local communities through environmental cleanup efforts.
Similar to the former Kazi Mtaani programme, this new initiative will employ young men and women as casual workers across various municipalities, urban towns, and markets, with a primary focus on solid waste management.
“This initiative is a testament to our commitment to creating employment opportunities for our youth,” the notice in a local daily read.
“This is not just about cleaning up; it’s about giving our young people a chance to earn a living and contribute to the well-being of their communities,” it added.
Scheduled for August 28, 2024, the recruitment drive will be held across all sub-locations in Machakos County. Interested candidates are encouraged to report to their local Assistant Chief’s offices by 8:00 a.m., with selection conducted on a first-come, first-served basis.
In response to public outcry over its termination, the government seems to be re-assessing the Kazi Mtaani programme, with President William Ruto indicating that the Kenya Kwanza administration is contemplating its reinstatement.
The Kazi Mtaani programme was previously known for employing 500 youths per ward on a rotational basis, paying them a daily stipend for their work in maintaining public infrastructure.
Launched under former President Uhuru Kenyatta, the Kazi Mtaani programme was halted when President Ruto took office in September 2022. The decision was based on concerns over its potential misuse for political purposes, mismanagement of funds, and perceptions of undignified work. President Ruto subsequently promoted job opportunities within the Affordable Housing Project.
Recently, President Ruto suggested the possible return of the programme during a speech to Nakuru residents, revealing that 500 youths would soon be hired under the renewed initiative.
“There are women here who have expressed a desire for Kazi Mtaani. Beginning next week, 500 individuals will be hired under this initiative,” the President declared, highlighting his administration’s dedication to offering meaningful employment opportunities for the youth.
The revamped Kazi Mtaani programme under the Kenya Kwanza administration is expected to complement its other job creation strategies, including digital job creation, labor export, and the affordable housing programme.
“This is so that we can make sure more young people can get employment opportunities,” President Ruto stated.
