The State Department for Housing and Urban Development has completed the process of onboarding 7,000 interns across Kenya in what is being described as one of the largest youth internship initiatives in the country’s built environment sector.
The recruitment follows an August 2025 advertisement by the Public Service Commission (PSC) and marks the culmination of a months-long process aimed at providing young Kenyans with professional experience, mentorship, and pathways into long-term careers in the construction, planning, and housing industries.
Strengthening Collaboration and Transparency
Before recruitment began, a one-day stakeholders’ forum was held on 24th September 2025 at the Kenya School of Government, Nairobi campus. The meeting brought together representatives from the PSC, private sector realtors, professional bodies such as the Architectural Association of Kenya, the Physical Planners Registration Board, the Board of Registration of Architects and Quantity Surveyors (BORAQs), and County Directors of Housing from all 47 counties.
The forum discussed the internship framework, mentorship structure, deployment plan, and challenges affecting youth integration into the built environment workforce.
Between 1st and 5th September 2025, the PSC and State Department officials shortlisted candidates through a rigorous selection process involving data sorting and merit-based parameters. Successful candidates were invited for interviews held between 13th and 17th October 2025 across all counties.
Youth Employment Through the Affordable Housing Programme
The onboarding exercise is closely linked to Kenya’s Affordable Housing Programme (AHP), which continues to be a key driver of job creation in the construction and housing sector.
According to Mr. Douglas Njeru, Director of Human Resource Management at the State Department for Housing, the programme is a “new era in youth empowerment”, designed to equip graduates and diploma holders with practical work experience and exposure to real-world projects.
“This initiative not only provides them with practical experience but also opens doors to potential career opportunities,” said Mr. Njeru. “The interns have undergone an extensive orientation programme that equips them with the knowledge and tools needed to excel in their roles.”
Mentorship, Skills, and Structured Growth
Mr. Njeru added that a structured mentorship system has been established to ensure that each intern receives continuous guidance from experienced professionals throughout their tenure.
Specialised workshops have also been conducted to build soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, in addition to technical expertise.
“This initiative is a testament to the government’s commitment to youth empowerment and job creation,” said Mr. Njeru. “By providing young Kenyans with the opportunity to gain practical experience, we aim to reduce unemployment rates and equip the youth with the skills needed to thrive in the job market.”
A Milestone in National Workforce Development
The onboarding of 7,000 interns represents a major milestone for Kenya’s youth employment agenda. Stakeholders are optimistic that the initiative will enhance employability and contribute to the country’s overall economic development.
The State Department has reaffirmed its commitment to working with the PSC, county governments, and professional bodies to sustain and expand such internship opportunities across the housing and urban development ecosystem.
“As these young professionals begin their journey, they carry with them the hopes and expectations of a bright future,” Mr. Njeru said. “This milestone underscores the power of collaborative efforts in addressing youth unemployment and fostering a skilled, inclusive workforce.”
