PS Fikirini thanks late Raila for spotting his potential
Principal Secretary Fikirini Jacobs thanked the late Raila Odinga for recognizing his potential, crediting Odinga for his rise as the youngest PS. Speaking at a forum for care leavers, Jacobs advocated for trusting young people and highlighted the importance of skills development. The event also brought to light the significant gaps in aftercare support for youth transitioning out of institutional care.
Why it matters
This article highlights the importance of mentorship in career development, particularly for youth in public service, and draws attention to critical social issues like youth unemployment and the need for structured support for care leavers in Kenya. It also touches on government initiatives for youth empowerment.
SOS Children's Villages Kenya national director Walter Odiambo, State Department for Youth Affairs and Creative Economy principal secretary Fikirini Jacobs and SOS Children's Kenya Vice board chair David Kiambi during the National care leavers dialogue forum at Panari Hotel, Nairobi on September 15 , 2026/LEAH MUKANGAI
Principal Secretary for Youth Affairs and Creative Economy Fikirini Jacobs has thanked the late Raila Odinga for spotting his potential, while young people leaving alternative care called for structured aftercare support.
Jacobs spoke at the Care Leavers Dialogue 2026 at Panari Hotel, Nairobi, on September 15.
The forum was organised by SOS Children’s Villages Kenya under its Leave No Youth Behind project.
“I thank posthumously the late Raila Amolo Odinga, who held my hand when nobody would see value in me, and personally introduced me to the President, who in turn appreciated the same value that Baba had seen in me,” Fikirini said.
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