To steer vulnerable youth in Kwale away from drugs, crime and extremism, the county embarked on an initiative to develop young people’s skills.
On Tuesday, more than 90 youth from Bongwe/Gombato ward completed a three-month training programme aimed at trauma recovery, stress management and behaviour transformation.
Bongwe/Gombato has long struggled with youth-related insecurity, drug abuse and criminal gangs as unemployment, poverty and lack of positive engagement opportunities contribute to rising cases of juvenile delinquency, petty theft and radicalisation.
The programme targeted at-risk youth, particularly those frequenting local maskanis (informal gathering spots) and sought to equip them with essential life skills that promote mental well-being, peacebuilding and social responsibility.
The training was implemented by the Bongwe Youth Network under the Kujenga Amani (Building Peace) project, with support from the European Union.
During the graduation ceremony, Kwale CEC for Youth, social services and talent development, Francisca Kilonzo, said the programme had made a profound impact on the lives of many participants.
“We have seen complete transformation. Many of these young people were previously trapped in cycles of trauma and insecurity. After undergoing mental health and stress management training, they are now embracing change,” she said.
Kilonzo acknowledged Bongwe/Gombato’s past reputation as a hub for juvenile gangs and criminal activity, but said the tide is turning—thanks to such interventions and complementary government programmes.
“The area that was once known for lawlessness is changing. We are seeing more youth rejecting crime and choosing peaceful ways to solve conflicts,” she added, urging the graduates to stay on the path of peace and personal growth.
The county government has scaled up youth empowerment efforts to ensure they have access to opportunities for self-improvement and economic participation.
“Youth are the backbone of the economy. When we empower them, we uplift the entire community,” she said.
Fred Odera, project coordinator for Kujenga Amani, said the initiative is part of a regional peacebuilding effort across coastal Kenya, Mozambique and Tanzania.
“The coastal region has faced persistent challenges such as youth radicalization, drug trafficking and historical injustices. This project aims to build resilience from within by empowering young people with tools for healing, conflict resolution and social cohesion,” he said.
Odera said in Kwale alone, the Kujenga Amani project supports 15 community-based organisations, helping them expand trauma healing, peacebuilding and resource mobilisation efforts to reach more at-risk youth.
Rama Mwachili, executive director of Bongwe Youth Network, said the training was developed in response to deep-seated psychological wounds many young people carry silently.
“We found that many youths weren’t just idle—they were burdened by trauma from broken homes, violence and harassment. The sessions created a safe space for them to process emotions and make better choices,” he said.
Participants underwent sessions on mental health awareness, emotional intelligence, communication, conflict resolution and the dangers of substance abuse.
They also engaged in peer mentorship and community service projects, helping reinforce responsibility and social unity.
Mwachili said the graduates are now expected to serve as community peace ambassadors within Bongwe/Gombato and surrounding neighbourhoods.
One of the participants, Mwanajuma Mwatwenye, said the programme helped her gain control over her emotions and find purpose in life.
“I used to feel lost and angry. But the trauma healing sessions helped me process what I went through at a young age and now I know how to manage my stress and emotions,” she said.
Another youth, Hamisi Matano, said he is now committed to mentoring peers in his community.
“The change I’ve experienced has inspired me to give back. I want to help others see that transformation is possible,” he said.
