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Nairobi Youth on the Move to Combat COVID-19

The current season has tested humanity as a whole. In spite of the happenings, Covid-19 has renewed our thinking, if not our way of life. What stands out is the resilience that has been renewed in this unprecedented time, and the positive spirit of volunteering by youth in different communities.

Ever wondered why you need to be actively engaged in creating change as a young person? But how do you engage when a crisis threatens not only the economy but also everyone’s life? Do you know that one good deed from you can build us back better? It is important to know that the achievement of this is only possible through awareness, understanding and most importantly action. Yes! We. Must. Act!

Youth are worried

A lot has happened, the good and bad, well… mostly bad. Youth are worried about many things in this period, and joblessness, mental health following loss of jobs due to various government restrictions and a rise in domestic disputes and gender based violence seem to be the greatest concerns.


The Youth for Sustainable Development-Nairobi Chapter has been in action. This network of young people volunteering in Nairobi has been on the go.
Doing what, you may ask?
For change to happen, information and knowledge must be shared.
Community-centered awareness creation not only ensures we stay stronger but also more informed. We have been conducting several webinars to create awareness and empower more youth on how to cope with challenges emerging during and post- Covid-19. These have reached over 320 youth directly in only one month, the good news? Youth themselves plan, prepare and coordinate these webinars, and more to that, youth have acquired new skills. Moreover, great partners have been pumping us with valuable skills through their immensely informed youthful professionals.
Thousands of listeners in Nairobi have been informed through various youth led community radio talk shows, activations and advertisements, to send key messages of hope and resilience to youth and other vulnerable groups in the community during this period.
Youth during a radio talk show in Pamoja FM in Kibera

We have had roadshows in Mathare Sub-County, one of the informal settlements that had high Covid-19 infection rates. Road shows are instrumental in sensitizing the most vulnerable people with information conveyed through social media and mainstream media about the pandemic that they possibly miss out on due to lack of access.
Collaboration with community members as behavior change ambassadors improves understanding enhancing partnerships and trust. We know that no matter how well we plan and act, without the community’s goodwill it remains null and void. The youth volunteers have engaged motorcycle riders in Kibera, Mathare and Mukuru areas in Nairobi as behavior change ambassadors. Well, these riders are everywhere as they can access every corner of the city. Targeting them to create awareness and educate the community on Covid-19 and mitigating measures is a necessary way to reach more people.
Youth distributing reflector jackets to motorcycle riders in the community

We have distributed 250 reflector Jackets with messages and face masks while the Nairobi Deputy County Commissioner, area Chiefs showed tremendous support for our initiatives and talked to the riders on their crucial role in fighting the Covid-19 pandemic.
Additionally, these government administrators have welcomed further efforts that will transform the lives of people within their jurisdictions. Now, this is trust created. Yeah! The government’s reopening of the economy has given youth a leap of hope. Again, this calls for more responsibility from us. The means justifies the end. How are you acting as a youth? Thus, our support to our communities as change agents will not only build their resilience, but build us up as well. Giving time gives you time.

By Lucy Anyango

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