She said the system has consistently failed young Kenyans, despite their growing awareness and influence.
Speaking on Friday, January 16, during the launch of a sanitary towel distribution at Kiamaina Primary School under her Tupange Kesho empowerment programme, Maina highlighted the gap between youth awareness and opportunities.
The programme, which provides schoolgirls with essential sanitary supplies, also offered a platform to discuss wider youth issues, including political and economic exclusion.
“You are told you are the leaders of tomorrow, yet today you are locked out. You are told to be patient while corruption eats away your future,” Maina said.
She stressed that the anger among young people is rooted in awareness and injustice, rather than laziness or entitlement.
Maina urged young Kenyans to channel their energy into organised action, including voter registration and participation in civic and community initiatives.
She said active engagement is critical for the youth to influence decisions that affect their lives and the nation’s future.
The Woman Representative emphasized that empowering youth is not just about giving resources, but also about creating opportunities for meaningful participation in leadership and policy-making.
She encouraged schools, communities, and government leaders to involve young people in decision-making on education, governance, and economic development.
Through her Tupange Kesho programme, Maina aims to combine social assistance with youth empowerment, fostering leadership skills and civic participation.
She urged young people to claim their rightful space in society, reminding them that their future depends on active involvement and commitment.