Nairobi, Kenya – August 16, 2025 — The Head of Creative Economy and Special Projects in the Office of the President, Denis Itumbi, has dismissed claims that the recent State House empowerment program was a scam.
The program, held on August 9, 2025, has come under criticism after some attendees claimed they left empty-handed despite promises of support.
Clarification from Itumbi
Itumbi explained that the initiative was designed to benefit registered groups rather than individuals.
“No items were issued to individuals. The empowerment targeted 1,150 groups, each consisting of 10 people. Only the group chairmen were allowed to collect the items. That was the official process. Even lying, to paraphrase President Kibaki, requires some design!” he stated.
The clarification came after a Citizen TV report featured Nairobi residents who accused organizers of duping thousands of youths who attended the forum at State House, Nairobi.
Background of the Program
The empowerment forum was launched as part of the government’s broader strategy to boost youth entrepreneurship, cooperative societies, and innovation. According to Itumbi, distributing items through group leaders ensures accountability and sustainability of the resources provided.
Public Reactions
Despite the clarification, many Kenyans on social media remain skeptical, with some arguing that communication around the event was unclear. Others have urged the government to provide more transparency in future empowerment initiatives.
For more political and youth empowerment news, visit sauce.co.ke/politics.
To learn about government youth programs, check out the official Kenya Ministry of Youth Affairs.
