Kaimosi Friends University, in collaboration with the Vihiga County government, hosted the 4th edition of the Vihiga County Youth Extravaganza. The three-day event, inaugurated by the Deputy Governor, Hon. Wilber Kitiezo, on behalf of Governor Dr. Wilber Otichillo, took place from May 23 to May 25, 2024.
Key attendees included Mrs. Ann Desma, CECM for Gender, Culture, Youth, Sport, and Social Services, Dr. Ruth Agesa, CECM for Education, Mr. Sylvesters Kane, Chief Officer of Vihiga County, KAFU staff and students. The acting Vice Chancellor of Kaimosi Friends University, Prof. Peter Mwita, welcomed the guests and delivered a speech at the KAFU Assembly Hall, marking the official commencement of the extravaganza. Prof. Mwita expressed the university’s full support for youth development and highlighted the importance of the event in promoting youth wellness and addressing critical issues such as alcoholism, drug abuse, and gender-based violence. He also emphasized the university's commitment to community service and research, mentioning plans to launch the Climate Change Action Center of Excellence which is in partnership with the Vihiga County Government.
The youth extravaganza featured a variety of activities, including music and dance performances, film screenings, dramatized items, and fine arts exhibitions. Panel discussions covered themes like governance, civic education, alcoholism, drug and substance abuse, ICT and innovation, agri-entrepreneurship, and micro-enterprise. Various partners, including NACADA, SHOFCO, PATH USAID, CIC Insurance, KCB Bank, Equity Bank, the Civil Society Organization Network, and West Media Company, participated in the event. Hon. Dorcas Kedogo, Commissioner at National Cohesion and Integration, also attended and met with Prof. Mwita, promising support and urging for community cohesion.
More than 800 youths and 14 adjudicators participated in the event, showcasing their talents and engaging in meaningful discussions. The extravaganza aimed to equip the youth with skills to face life’s challenges and promote a positive impact, particularly for those affected by drug abuse and gender-based violence.
The event concluded on Saturday, May 25, 2024, with Governor Dr. Wilber Otichillo officially closing the extravaganza. In his address, Dr. Otichillo highlighted the significance of the youth to Kenya’s economy and urged them to utilize the Youth Fund provided by the national government. He promised to establish a youth directorate in Vihiga County to nurture youth talent and encouraged those who do not qualify for university to consider polytechnic education. Dr. Otichillo also committed to rewarding and supporting the winners from the various competitions held during the extravaganza. He thanked the organizers, partners, and participants for the successful event and extended special thanks to Kaimosi Friends University and its acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Peter Mwita, for hosting the event.
The chief guest, Hon. Ababu Namwamba, EGH-Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Sports, and the Arts, was scheduled to address the audience on the final day. However, he arrived late due to other official engagements.
The Vihiga County Youth Extravaganza once again proved to be a crucial platform for youth empowerment and development, reflecting the collaborative efforts of Kaimosi Friends University and the Vihiga County government.