Gov’t seeks nominations for National Steering Committee to facilitate youth dialogue

The government has called upon umbrella bodies representing youth, civil society, religious groups, professional bodies, academia, and parliament, among others, to nominate representatives to the National Steering Committee (NSC) by July 7, 2024.

The National Steering Committee will consist of 100 individuals who will form the National Multi-Sectoral Forum (NMSF) to facilitate a nationwide dialogue with the youth following the anti-Finance Bill protests led by Generation Z.

The committee’s mandate includes addressing youth concerns such as employment, tax policies, debt burden, representation, accountability, and anti-corruption measures.

It will also establish a framework for engaging political leaders in a bipartisan manner.

“Each umbrella body is requested to formally nominate two representatives, ensuring gender balance, for consideration to the National Steering Committee (NSC). Nominations should be sent to the Executive Office of the President at Harambee House,” stated Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service Felix Koskei.

Once established, President William Ruto will convene the committee’s inaugural meeting, during which the committee will independently select its leadership.

Further, the forum will operate autonomously across all 47 counties, employing a participatory, citizen-centric, and inclusive process starting at the ward level.

“In alignment with our national values and principles of governance on public participation, every Kenyan and stakeholder will have the opportunity to present their proposals on the agenda items in person, remotely, individually, or as groups,” Koskei added.

Earlier this week, while announcing the withdrawal of the contentious Finance Bill 2024, President Ruto proposed a multi-sectoral and multi-stakeholder engagement on key national issues.

Ruto underscored the need to hold a conversation on matters relating to the contents of the bill as well as other governance issues.

“As a nation, it is imperative that we engage in discussions on how to collectively manage the country’s affairs, including our debt and budget deficit,” he said.