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Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Kipchumba Murkomen has revealed that a majority of the unemployed population in Kenya are the youth.

Speaking during the International Youth Day celebrations in Mombasa on Monday, August 12, 2024, Murkomen revealed that each year, between 500,000 to 800,000 young people enter the job market, overwhelming the economy’s capacity to provide adequate employment.

“Kenya, despite being one of East Africa’s largest and most dynamic economies, faces a severe youth unemployment crisis. The figures are alarming: 80% of the unemployed population are young people. Each year, between 500,000 to 800,000 young people enter the job market, overwhelming the economy’s capacity to provide adequate employment,” Murkomen said.

“This results in a labour force participation rate of only 38% among those aged 15 to 24, jeopardizing our social and economic stability.”

Murkomen announces initiatives for youth

To curb the unemployment rates, Murkomen announced that the government is implementing several initiatives to enhance youth employment and entrepreneurship.

Among the initiatives announced by the CS include the Talanta Hela programme, business development services for youth-owned or youth-focused enterprises, the annual Presidential Innovation Challenge, conversion of youth empowerment centres into digital transformation hubs, policy reforms and youth engagement.

Murkomen has also announced an upcoming launch of the Nyota Project, which he says will directly impact 810,000 vulnerable youth aged 18-29 years and up to 35 years for persons with disabilities.

“This initiative targets those with Form Four level education and below, who are at the bottom of the economic and social pyramid due to limited access to government programs. The Nyota Project will be instrumental in improving employability, strengthening youth employment systems, expanding employment opportunities and supporting youth savings,” Murkomen stated.

“Nyota addresses agricultural transformation, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by promoting 110,000 youth-led MSMEs with start-up capital and mentorship, housing and settlement, healthcare and digital superhighway and creative industry by creating digital job opportunities and nurturing youth talents.”

According to Murkomen, said the digital divide remains a significant barrier, with many young people lacking access to the internet, digital devices, and necessary skills.

“We must bridge this gap by investing in digital infrastructure, promoting digital literacy, and creating opportunities for all young people to engage in the digital economy. Moreover, we must address risks such as cyberbullying, misinformation, and online privacy threats. It is crucial to create a digital environment that is safe, inclusive, and empowering for everyone,” he stated.