Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Sheriff Nassir has urged political leaders to address youth unemployment and economic exclusion instead of exploiting young people for political violence, saying empowerment remains the most sustainable solution to insecurity and disorder.
Speaking at Tononoka Grounds during the issuance of licensing documents to 1,300 boda boda operators, Nassir said leaders have a duty to create opportunities that enable young people to earn a decent living and contribute to national development.
He condemned the recent incidents of goonism reported in parts of the country, warning that paying unemployed youth to engage in violence only deepens social and economic challenges.
“Our young people do not need politicians who give them a few coins to cause chaos. They need leaders who will create opportunities, invest in their skills, support their businesses and give them a genuine stake in the future of this country,” the governor said.
Nassir said his administration has sought to strengthen the boda boda sector through practical interventions, including facilitating the licensing of riders, distributing protective gear, supporting SACCOs with motorcycles and integrating operators into county programmes.
According to the governor, the licensing of 1,300 boda boda operators reflects the county government’s commitment to formalising the sector while improving safety standards and creating an enabling environment for thousands of young people who depend on the industry for their livelihoods.
He called on Kenyans to evaluate leaders based on their ability to deliver tangible development, create jobs and improve the welfare of citizens rather than on inflammatory political rhetoric.
Nassir said leadership should inspire hope and provide pathways for young people to succeed through entrepreneurship, education and skills development instead of exposing them to violence and criminal activities.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fulfilling its development agenda, maintaining that Kenya’s future should be built on accountability, economic empowerment and inclusive growth rather than division and confrontation.
