National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has announced plans by the government to construct a Sh50 million talent and culture centre in Bungoma town as part of efforts to promote the creative economy and nurture youth talent across the county.
Wetang’ula said he would work with the State Department for Youth Affairs and the Creative Economy to secure budgetary allocation for the facility, which he described as the first of its kind in the region.
He said Bungoma County has vast creative potential but lacks adequate infrastructure to support artistic and sporting talent.
“Bungoma County is a reservoir of raw talent, but our youth lack spaces to practice and grow their skills. This centre will provide an ideal platform for creativity to flourish,” Wetang’ula said.
The Speaker made the remarks during the finale of the Bungoma Talent Expo held at Bungoma High School.
The event was sponsored by Senate Chief Whip and Bungoma Senator David Wakoli and brought together youths from across the county to showcase their creative abilities.
Wetang’ula said performances at the expo highlighted the county’s untapped potential in the creative economy, noting that proper investment could significantly improve the livelihoods of young people.
“From music, dance, rap, comedy, poetry to spoken word, the performances were captivating and reaffirmed my belief that our youth are brimming with energy, creativity and limitless potential,” he said.
He added that once operational, the proposed centre would play a key role in identifying and nurturing talent through open performance platforms, while also creating employment opportunities, promoting peace, and strengthening social cohesion.
The Speaker commended Senator Wakoli for sponsoring the Bungoma Talent Expo, saying the initiative had successfully unearthed hidden talent. He pledged to offer financial support for the next edition of the event.
Wetang’ula also urged young people in the county to take advantage of online employment opportunities under the national government’s Kazi Majuu programme, expressing concern that uptake of such opportunities in the region remains low.
In his remarks, Senator Wakoli said the expo was designed to help transform raw talent into sustainable income-generating ventures for unemployed youth, complementing government efforts to position creativity as a viable economic sector.
Wetang’ula further challenged the Bungoma County Government to allocate more resources towards the promotion and development of youth talent.
Wakoli reaffirmed his commitment to supporting young people in the county, saying recognition of his efforts had strengthened his resolve to invest in future generations.
“This recognition means a lot to me. It renews my passion and strengthens my commitment to keep walking with our young people, nurturing their dreams, and opening more doors of opportunity for their future. Together, we are building something powerful for Bungoma and beyond,” Wakoli said.
