Youth from Kisii County are set to benefit from a new partnership between the KCB Foundation and the Kisii County Government, aimed at equipping them with technical vocational skills. This initiative is designed to boost youth employment and foster economic growth at the grassroots level.
Under the partnership, KCB Foundation and the county government will jointly invest KSH 50 million, with each contributing KSH 25 million on a 1:1 ratio. This investment will support the creation of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by providing the youth with vocational skills training and access to capital.
During the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing, KCB Foundation Director Mendi Njonjo emphasized the importance of empowering the youth through technical skills, noting that MSMEs play a crucial role in driving socio-economic development. She highlighted KCB Foundation’s 2Jiajiri program, which seeks to formalize the informal job sector and make it more appealing to the youth. “Through 2Jiajiri, we aim to provide access to capital, capacity-building, and mentorship to ensure that these enterprises thrive,” Njonjo said.
Governor Simba Arati of Kisii County expressed his commitment to fulfilling his promises to the electorate, noting that the partnership would empower the youth while boosting the county’s economy. “By equipping our youth with the skills they need, we’re not only enhancing their employment prospects but also strengthening the foundation of our local MSMEs,” he said. “These businesses are vital for job creation, investment attraction, and economic growth.”
A Holistic Approach to Youth Employment
The youth will undergo training under the KCB Foundation’s 2Jiajiri program, which focuses on upskilling unemployed and out-of-school youth in technical fields. The training will take place at National Industrial Training Authority (NITA) certified institutions, ensuring certification and industry recognition. Additionally, participants will receive entrepreneurial and financial management training, helping them successfully establish their businesses.
To support this, the Kisii County Government will provide opportunities for industrial attachments and on-the-job internships. The county will also facilitate employment opportunities through partnerships with public and private sectors, ensuring a smooth transition from training to the workforce.
KCB Foundation’s 2Jiajiri program not only focuses on skills development but also provides startup capital, working capital, and asset financing, giving the youth the resources needed to create their own businesses and contribute to the local economy.
Commitment to Sustainable Development
Since its launch in 2007, the KCB Foundation has been at the forefront of promoting sustainable development, alleviating poverty, and enhancing the well-being of communities across Kenya. Through programs like 2Jiajiri, education initiatives, and sustainable agriculture projects, the foundation has been a key player in driving inclusive economic growth.
This latest partnership with Kisii County is part of KCB Foundation’s broader commitment to addressing youth unemployment by empowering young people with the skills, resources, and support they need to succeed in Kenya’s competitive job market.
