SHOFCO partners with Homa Bay County, Council of Governors to host International Youth Day 2025

Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO) has joined forces with the County Government of Homa Bay and the Council of Governors (CoG) to host the International Youth Day (IYD) 2025 celebrations on August 12th.

This year’s event, to be held in Homa Bay town, is expected to draw youth from across the country. The focus will be on youth-led innovation, climate action, digital transformation, and localizing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Speaking during the official announcement of the partnership on Friday, August 1, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga lauded the collaboration as a bold step toward addressing youth unemployment and inclusion.

“Homa Bay is proud to host this year’s International Youth Day. This event is not just a celebration, but a platform to highlight the incredible potential of young people in transforming our economy, and our future.

“Together with SHOFCO and the Council of Governors, we are committed to giving youth the tools, networks, and visibility they deserve,” Governor Wanga said during the unveiling of Ugatuzi Wall which young people will use to channel their messages ahead of Devolution Conference to be held between August 12th and 15th.

The event will feature exhibitions, panel discussions, a youth innovation competition, and policy dialogues focused on youth entrepreneurship, climate resilience, and AI-driven solutions in marginalized areas.

SHOFCO CEO Dr. Kennedy Odede, whose grassroots organization serves over 4.1 million people across 35 counties, emphasized the urgency of empowering youth with 21st-century skills.

“Young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are the solution-makers of today,” said Odede. “With the right partnerships, they can build businesses, lead communities, and drive sustainable change. International Youth Day is a chance to center their voices and invest in their potential. Youth do not belong in the margins.”

Dr. Odede also noted that SHOFCO will use the event to launch new digital inclusion initiatives focused on AI training, youth innovation hubs, and tech-enabled job creation in underserved communities.

Council of Governors Planning Committee Chair and Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga emphasized the importance of national collaboration in empowering youth at the county level.

“Youth development cannot be left to the national government alone. Counties are where solutions meet the people.

“Through this partnership, we are setting the standard for what youth-centered development can look like. This is a critical moment for Kenya to harness the ideas and energy of its young people, and we’re honored to be part of this effort. We are there to listen to them,” Governor Kahiga said.

The event will also showcase the success stories of young innovators and entrepreneurs supported by SHOFCO’s youth programs across informal settlements and rural communities in Kenya.

SHOFCO’s Program Director, John Odero, underscored the significance of investing in youth leadership at the grassroots.

“Young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow, they are the solution-makers of today. Through this partnership with Homa Bay County and the Council of Governors, we are reaffirming our commitment to equipping youth with tools, platforms, and opportunities to drive change in their communities,” Mr. Odero said.

The organization has rolled out several youth empowerment programs across Kenya that include TVET scholarships, advocacy training, business training, offering grants & loans, and organising sporting activities.  

The collaboration marks the first time SHOFCO, a grassroots movement founded in Kibera 2004, is co-hosting IYD at a country-wide level in partnership with CoG.

It also reflects the growing commitment among county governments to integrate youth in the development agenda.

Organizers expect over 2,000 youth participants, including students, community leaders, local entrepreneurs, and county officials. International partners and community-based organsations (CBOs) working in youth empowerment and innovation are also expected to attend.