Police and youth in Kamukunji’s California Ward team up to tackle crime

California Ward in Nairobi's Kamukunji Constituency is implementing a new approach to address crime by focusing on at-risk youth, particularly in the informal settlements of Kinyago and Kanuku.

The initiative, a collaboration between a local police station and community leaders, aims to provide meaningful opportunities for young people who might otherwise turn to crime.

The programme, spearheaded by Officer Commanding Station (OCS) Adan Guyo, recognises that many crimes in the area are committed by young boys who drop out of school and lack legal ways to make a living.

To counter this, the initiative connects vulnerable youth with resources and skills training, such as driving lessons, to give them a fresh start.

One of the beneficiaries of this programme is 19-year-old Eugene Nyangweso, a resident of the Kinyago informal settlement. After completing high school in 2022, Eugene found himself at a crossroads. His parents could not afford to send him to college or university, leaving him without a clear path forward.

Eugene was forced to start providing for his family, with few options other than engaging in crime.

Reflecting on his situation, Eugene stated, "Most youth join crime to afford food and other drugs they use, as that is the only possible means. But again, crime is bad."

Eugene Nyangweso (2nd left) from Kinyago in California Ward being introduced to lessons at Zakhan Driving School. (Photo: Abdirahman Khalif)

Recognising his vulnerability, OCS Guyo reached out to Ayub Abdiqani, the chief executive officer of Zakhan Driving School, to see if Eugene could be enrolled in driving classes free of charge. Ayub responded positively.

"Once the OCS called me, I told him the school belonged to the community, and we are ready to accept anyone," Ayub said.

Eugene was enrolled on the programme, with the school covering all costs.

"After meeting Eugene and seeing how much he needed this opportunity, I instructed my secretary to enrol him immediately," Ayub said.

The initiative also relies on the support of community members who understand the challenges young people face.

One such person is Peter Mweke, a former offender who now works to steer youth away from crime and drug use.

Mweke explained that Eugene was chosen for the programme by other young people in the community, who saw him as especially vulnerable.

"He was vulnerable because his brother was in jail. We are trying to change lives. I have also been involved in crime, so I know how easy it is to go down that path," Mweke said.

Last month, Mweke organised a meeting between local youth and the California Ward police to discuss grievances and build trust.

During this meeting, the idea to enrol Eugene into driving school was proposed.

This collaboration between police, community leaders, and local institutions marks a shift in how crime prevention is approached in the area.

By addressing the root causes of crime — such as lack of education and job opportunities — the programme seeks to empower young people rather than criminalise them.

The driving school programme is just one example of the broader efforts being made to engage at-risk youth.

While Eugene is now learning driving, other young people are pursuing different interests based on their needs and goals.

The initiative is seen as a way to bridge the gap between the community and law enforcers while creating sustainable opportunities for vulnerable youth.

"This new way of dealing with crime is not only reducing criminal activity in California but also giving young people the chance to lead better lives," Mweke said.