By Sefu Sabila DevReporter Trans Nzoia
Pledging projects and initiatives have been a major campaign strategy adopted by political aspirants, who are offering to sponsor them fully in efforts to woo voters.
Unlike in the previous years where billboards and posters were the order of the day, flooding walls and electricity posts is now the norm. Aspirants have initiated projects ostensibly to help women and youth specifically. These range from artisan oriented projects to literacy in technology.
Sports tournaments under aspirant names, with the aim of nurturing talent and boosting sporting activities, have become the order of the day. For instance one by a MCA aspirant in Hospital Ward is one of the many tournaments under sponsorship by politicians.
“Basically they are not one or two. Tournament by politicians are many, often accompanied by the promise of ensuring that Kenyatta Stadium is renovated. It is a good move only if their pledges are fulfilled”, former Sofapaka Player Suche said.
An aspirant in the Trans Nzoia gubernatorial race runs a youth ICT cafe. Everette Nate, Coordinator of the Programme, says that it is offering computer literacy to the youth, and also easier connectivity to networks.
The initiative, now in its fourth month, aims to equip the youth with basic computer knowledge, as well as coding and programming. It is currently piloting in Saboti constituency, with plans to roll out in other sub-counties later in the year.” He explained
Speaking during the graduation of 180 youths from various wards in Saboti, Nate refuted claims that the project was a campaign strategy. He says that the project is a collaborative effort bringing together various organizations for the benefits of the youths in the county as a whole.
” People assume that since we are in a political season, this is a campaign strategy. We have been partnering with other organizations like Ajira and PowerLand, in a project to run for the next 5 years. This is not for political reasons.” He stated.
Faith Rebba, a beneficiary of the program, says that it is a great initiative, as it will provide many youth like her with knowledge, which they can use for their benefit.
“Getting such an opportunity is rare. With the knowledge we have acquired, I’m certain of improving my small business through an online platform, once I complete the classes by Ajira. ” She said.
“This has been a great idea, whether or not it is for political gain. I’m glad the burden of paying 6000 shillings by my parents for computer classes has been alleviated. I’m glad the opportunity came immediately after I finished my secondary education in April.” Elijah Mboya, a beneficiary, added.
