The State Department for Youth Affairs and Creative Economy has filled a key leadership gap with the appointment of Josephine Etenyi as Secretary for Youth Development, bringing to an end a year-long vacancy in a role central to coordinating youth programmes and policy.
Her appointment, confirmed on Friday, followed a competitive recruitment process conducted by the Public Service Commission, according to a departmental update issued shortly after the announcement. The department said the position had remained unfilled for a year, and expressed confidence that the new office holder will strengthen leadership, coordination, and delivery of youth-focused initiatives.
Acting Director of Human Resource Management and Development Joseph Wambo formally communicated the decision during a meeting, noting that Etenyi had gone through due process and received official confirmation from the commission.
“On behalf of the PS, Wambo congratulated Etenyi for the well-deserved appointment affirming that she is equal to the task, having worked in the department for many years,” the statement said.
Etenyi takes up the role at a time when the department is pushing to enhance youth development programmes, with a focus on improving policy coordination and implementation across sectors. While chairing a performance review committee meeting at the department’s headquarters, she acknowledged the responsibility ahead and outlined her priorities.
“She expressed profound gratitude for the appointment, and assured the department of her unreserved commitment in supporting the PS for Youth Affairs, Fikirini Jacobs, and the entire Ministry’s leadership, on the coordination of policy and programmes’ implementation,” the department said.
She also called for stronger teamwork, appreciating staff support and encouraging continued collaboration to improve service delivery.
“She equally thanked the staff for their support and welcomed their contribution in advancing the youth agenda and enhance service delivery,” the statement added.
Before her promotion, Etenyi served as Director for Policy, Research and Mainstreaming within the State Department, where she led efforts in research, policy development, and integration of youth strategies into wider government plans. Her work involved driving programmes aimed at strengthening youth interventions, placing her at the centre of shaping policy direction within the ministry.
The department said her rise to the Secretary position reflects years of experience and institutional knowledge gained through service.
“She brings to her new position a wealth of experience and knowledge in leadership, management and youth development policy, having risen through the ranks over the years, within the Ministry of youth affairs,” the statement said.
The Secretary for Youth Development plays a key role in coordinating programmes targeting young people, including employment initiatives, skills development, and opportunities within the creative economy. Officials expect that having a substantive office holder will improve efficiency, ensure continuity in programme execution, and support long-term planning.
Etenyi now assumes responsibility for guiding the department’s strategic direction, working closely with ministry leadership to deliver on youth priorities and deepen engagement with stakeholders as the government continues to focus on youth empowerment.