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One of the greatest challenges affecting the youth of Kenya is unemployment and the lack of practical skills, both of which hinder economic growth and development. To address this, the African Development Bank (AfDB), in collaboration with the Government of Kenya and private sector leaders, is launching a new initiative to equip young people with marketable skills and entrepreneurial abilities.

On April 29, 2025, the AfDB-managed Youth Entrepreneurship and Innovation Multi-Donor Trust Fund (YEI-MDTF) launched its Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Entrepreneurship Project in Nairobi. This project aims to empower youth with vocational and technical expertise aligned with market demands, thereby stimulating entrepreneurship, job creation, and long-term economic stability.

Dr. Esther Muoria, Principal Secretary of the State Department for TVET at the Ministry of Education, emphasized the need to bridge the gap between education and the labor market. She noted that the program will enhance employability, strengthen the connection between training institutions and industry, and facilitate a smoother transition from training to meaningful employment. The ultimate goal is inclusive development that directly benefits Kenyan youth.

The project is a product of strong cooperation between the Ministry of Education, the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA), and the African Development Bank. KEPSA’s participation ensures that training is aligned with industry requirements. The collaboration targets youth entrepreneurs, TVET institutions, and employers to build capacity and enhance employment opportunities.

Aggrey Ndombi, Senior Education Economist at AfDB and co-task manager of the project, highlighted that the Bank views vocational education as a cornerstone of youth empowerment. He stressed the need to align vocational training with current market needs to improve quality and employability.

The first major objective of the program is both ambitious and achievable: to place at least 1,200 TVET and entrepreneurship graduates into decent employment. In addition, the project aims to promote the growth of small and micro enterprises, drive innovation, and strengthen Kenya’s economy through wealth diversification and the formalization of youth-led businesses.

KEPSA CEO Carole Kariuki underscored the importance of equipping youth with practical, entrepreneurial, and digital skills. She noted that as Africa undergoes a demographic shift toward a younger population, it is critical to prepare this generation for emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence and online work. This is in line with Kenya’s broader approach to digital transformation and future-proofing the workforce.

The YEI-MDTF grant facility supports youth-led enterprises and small businesses while also providing income support and training. It helps the government implement policies that encourage entrepreneurship and foster innovation among the youth.

This program is effective in three key areas:

1. Addressing Youth Unemployment: It not only trains young people but also provides pathways to employment or entrepreneurship.
2. Motivating the Private Sector: It supports the growth of SMEs and boosts economic competitiveness by addressing labor market needs.
3. Advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): It directly contributes to goals such as decent work, economic growth, and reduced inequality.

The project has the potential to serve as a model for similar youth programs nationwide. With proper scaling, it could lead to widespread skills development, increased employment, and poverty alleviation.

In summary, the TVET Entrepreneurship Project by the African Development Bank is a game changer. It offers Kenyan youth the tools to succeed through strategic collaboration, innovative training, and impactful investment. The ultimate goal is to cultivate a generation of entrepreneurs and skilled professionals who will drive Kenya toward economic prosperity and thrive in the global digital economy.

By Brian Odhiambo, Blessed Citron.