Youth and Information Communication Technology (ICT) CAS Nadia Abdalla has decried the state of mental health among the youth and vowed to confront the menace. – By Enock Mukoma
Nadia said mental disorders and illnesses were inhibiting youth development and urged affected youth to seek medical attention immediately.
Speaking during a KBC Live show, the CAS said treatment will reverse the growing tide and said she will personally engage in a sensitization campaign to create awareness.
“This is a silent pandemic. The youth are suffering in silence. We must deal with mental health”, she said.
She said mental disorders can no longer be wished away…and urged young people to seek counselling from health professionals.
“I’m using my story as a Kenyan youth and a government youth to reach out to young people. We are also looking at how mental health can be a household thing and people speak about it freely”
She Said that youth must never again be used as a weapon against each other during elections.
The youth who hold the key to peaceful elections….and urged them to use their numerical strength to transition Kenya
‘’The Youth need to understand the power of unity and standing against tribalism and fostering peace in the country”,
The youthful CAS rubbished handouts culture rather urging young people to train themselves on digital programs since there is money in innovation
Digital Opportunities
She added that the ICT and youth Ministry has enabled the youth to access employment opportunities and said the ball is firmly in the hands of the youth.
Nadia said the Government has fully enabled the youth…and now it’s their duty to maximize the opportunities.
Nadia cited Ajira Program, huge investment in ICT forums, the hiring of
advisory officers and availability of finance as some of the cases in point.
However, she lamented that some youth are not taking advantage of the opportunities, and said the time is now.
The 29-year-old said that as a CAS she is in charge of youth empowerment, a docket she cherishes.
While addressing the trending pressure to achieve quick and illicit riches, Nadia urged them to instead concentrate on innovation.
“There is no need for chasing a mirage. Pursue your talent and the Government will support you”, she said.
Nadia said the Government has hired youth fund officers to help the youth access opportunities and challenged the youth to take advantage of these opportunities.
“The Youth Fund has been going around doing sensitization and issuing funds to the youth. I encourage youths to look for this information because the government has various interventions available’’.
“My message to the youth is that I might not do 100% but I’m able to influence your mind. If I can make it even you can make it. Life is not a bed of roses. Kenya ni mimi na wewe”
