By Kamadi Amata
Kileleshwa Member of County Assembly (MCA) Robert Alai has called on elected leaders to prioritize public participation, accountability and sustainable youth empowerment initiatives to address challenges facing communities.
Speaking during an interactive interview on Mtaani Radio on Thursday, Alai emphasized the importance of responsive leadership, improved education standards and investment in digital skills to create economic opportunities for young people.
The interview provided residents with an opportunity to engage with the MCA on governance, education and youth development as the country prepares for the 2027 General Election.
Alai expressed concern over what he described as a tendency among some elected leaders to disregard public opinion after assuming office.
He argued that leadership should not be based solely on an individual’s understanding of community challenges but should involve continuous consultation with residents to identify their needs and priorities.
According to Alai, effective leadership requires elected representatives to remain accessible, accountable and willing to listen to the people they represent.
He further emphasized that communities deserve leaders who prioritize service delivery and public interests over personal political ambitions.
On education, the Kileleshwa MCA underscored the importance of strengthening collaboration between public and private schools to improve learning opportunities and educational outcomes.
He noted that cooperation between the two sectors could contribute to improving education standards and ensuring that learners benefit from shared knowledge and resources.
Alai also called for greater recognition of teachers, acknowledging their contribution to nurturing young people and preparing them for future opportunities.
He maintained that appreciating and supporting educators is essential to building a stronger education system.
Turning to youth empowerment, Alai questioned political initiatives that focus heavily on providing motorcycles to young people, arguing that such approaches may not adequately address long-term economic challenges.
He expressed concern that some political leaders promote motorcycle-based initiatives as empowerment programmes without sufficiently investing in skills that could help young people access a wider range of economic opportunities.
Instead, Alai advocated for increased investment in digital literacy, technology training and practical skills development.
He encouraged young people to embrace emerging opportunities in the digital economy, noting that technological skills could open pathways to employment, innovation and entrepreneurship.
The MCA also urged community institutions, including churches, to play a more active role in supporting digital skills training and creating learning opportunities for young people.
The interview also provided an opportunity for residents to raise questions and engage directly with Alai on matters affecting their communities.
The discussion highlighted the importance of maintaining communication between elected representatives and citizens, particularly on issues related to development priorities, education and employment.
Alai’s remarks come as conversations around leadership, accountability and youth empowerment continue to feature prominently in Kenya’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 General Election.
His proposals place emphasis on public engagement, education and digital skills development as key areas for strengthening community participation and expanding opportunities for young people.
