Journalist Deqsan Abdi Hassan has declared her intention to contest for the Wajir County Women Representative position in the 2027 General Election, becoming one of the youngest aspirants to enter the race.
Deqsan, a journalist by profession, says her decision to seek elective office is informed by the need to strengthen the participation of women and young people in leadership, public decision-making and socio-economic development.
Her proposed agenda places youth and women at the centre of development, with an emphasis on expanding access to opportunities, strengthening economic inclusion and creating platforms through which young people can participate meaningfully in governance and community development.
Youth Agenda
Deqsan Hassan says young people constitute a significant proportion of the population and should be supported to transition from education and training into productive employment, entrepreneurship and other sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Speaking to The Radio and Television of Garissa, she said youth agenda is expected to focus on skills development, access to employment and enterprise opportunities, digital skills, entrepreneurship and initiatives that can enable young people to participate in the local and wider economy.
She also intends to advocate for stronger support for youth-led businesses and community initiatives, while promoting access to information on government programmes, training opportunities and available financing mechanisms in all the six constituencies of Wajir County.
Women’s Empowerment
Deqsan Hassan says she will prioritise initiatives on women and youth once elected to the August house in 2027 to improve women’s economic participation and strengthening their representation in leadership and decision-making processes.
Her agenda includes supporting women-led enterprises, improving access to skills and livelihood opportunities, and promoting programmes that address barriers limiting women’s participation in economic and public life.
Deqsan Hassan also seeks to place greater emphasis on access to healthcare and education for women and girls, while advocating for stronger community-based interventions that can improve social protection and household resilience.
Accountability and Representation
Her professional background in journalism has shaped her approach to public service, particularly on issues of accountability, public participation and access to information, she said during the interview.
Deqsan Hassan underlined intentions to bring these principles into elective leadership by promoting greater engagement between citizens and public institutions and ensuring that the concerns of women, youth and other community groups are reflected in development priorities and public decision-making.
