The youth are and will always account for a significant share of Kenya’s population for the foreseeable future. However, the main worry among this segment of the population is unemployment which has become a global phenomenon and Kenya is no exception.
A considerable number of reports indicate that there are persistent risks and challenges as a result of rising unemployment because failure to provide opportunities for the youth could lead to economic, political, cultural, and social consequences.
KCB Group’s Foundation in conjuction with the private sector has began to develop strategies, policies and programmes aimed at mitigating the risks and challenges. One of the components is the “private-sector internships and training” which is aimed at improving youth employability by providing work experience and skills through the creation of internships and relevant training both in the formal and informal sector.
The 2jiajiri program also gives the applicants scholarships to vocational and technical training institutions across the country to pursue various courses in 5 critical professions that form the backbone of the informal sector of Kenya’s economy; Building & Construction, Automotive Maintenance & Repair, Domestic & Catering Services, Beauty & Personal Care and Agribusiness.
One of the beneficiaries of the program is Crispin Chasui, Owner, Criscam Electrical and Technology Services which deals with computer installation and repairs on Luthuli Avenue, Nairobi.
Crispin completed his training at National Industrial Training Authority (NITA), and set up his company which he registered through the support he got from KCB Foundation.
He says acquired skills and knowledge which have enabled him to understand the quality of stock he should keep in his shop, the stock needed and the functionality of stock. He has learnt how to keep his books of accounts and differentiate between his personal expenses and business expenses, courtesy of the Foundation.
He also keeps receipts of all products that he sells as well as of services offered and with the help of a professional marketer from the Program, Crispin has developed a marketing plan, a business plan and is currently marketing himself via social media platforms.
Crispin’s says his revenues have shot up by more than 50% and has a goal of expanding his business and moving to a bigger space and employ an extra person to work with him.
