Commonwealth chief lauds Kenya's efforts to empower youths, women

Commonwealth Secretary General Kamalesh Sharma has commended Kenya for incorporating the youth in its development agenda.

Speaking when he paid a courtesy call on President Uhuru Kenyatta at State House Nairobi yesterday, Mr Sharma said Kenya has also done a lot in promoting women's welfare.

"The allocation of 30 per cent of all Government procurement to the youth, women and people with disability will go a long way in boosting that critical segment of the population. The Youth and the Uwezo funds are also unique initiatives that will benefit women and the youth," he said.

He said the Commonwealth is focused on bringing young people on board in its activities through awareness and profile-building.

He briefed the Head of State on the reforms at the Commonwealth and assured President Kenyatta of his organisation's support to Kenya's development initiatives.

"We are focused on partnering with Kenya in improving the lives of the people. Through co-operation, the country's potential can fully be released," the Commonwealth secretary general said.

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Uhuru said the Jubilee Government is keen on including the youth and women in its development endeavours, and further welcomed partnership and support that would help the State to achieve its development targets.

The President said Kenya has one of the most progressive constitutions in the world that has entrenched the rights of women and the youth.

"This is an area we would like to work with you to strengthen," President Kenyatta told the Commonwealth chief.

At a separate meeting, Uhuru held talks with World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Director General Marco Lambertini.

"We need to pool resources and be partners in wildlife conservation," he said.

Dr Lambertini praised Kenya for playing a leading role in combating the unlawful trade in wildlife.

WWF Country Director Mohammed Awer disclosed that this year WWF has given Kenya Wildlife Service Sh70 million to promote its conservation activities this year.

Environment Cabinet Secretary Prof Judi Wakhungu appreciated WWF's support to Kenya's wildlife conservation.