The government, through the State Department for Labour and Skills Development, has joined forces with volunteer organisations led by the Volunteer-Involving Organisations Society (VIO) Kenya in a significant step toward tackling youth unemployment.
Together, the two entities held important discussions to launch a new initiative that aims to create job opportunities for 20,000 young Kenyans by harnessing the power of volunteerism.
This collaborative effort, spearheaded by the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection alongside VIO Kenya, aims to transform volunteering into a meaningful pathway to employment.
Speaking during the meeting in Nairobi, Principal Secretary (PS) for Labour Shadrack Mwadime highlighted that the programme will develop a range of skills through hands-on volunteer activities, including technical skills, soft skills, and transferable skills.
“The goal is clear: to boost employability, support career growth, and contribute to Kenya’s economic progress,” stated the PS, adding that the initiative opens new doors for the Kenyan youth, turning volunteer hours into opportunities for meaningful work.
In a quick rejoinder, Meshack Odede, National Chairperson of VIO Kenya, reiterated this commitment, noting that since 2008, the organisation has united volunteers and partners to promote peace and development.
“Now, we are proud to lead this nationwide effort to translate volunteer experience into real job opportunities,” he expressed.
Notably, the programme will offer free training and certification, creating a transparent bridge from volunteering to paid employment. It also seeks to foster a culture where volunteering is recognised as a credible step toward career advancement and lifelong learning.
In addition, the partnership brings together schools, NGOs, corporate social responsibility units, community groups, and government agencies, all working in harmony to equip young people with the skills and support they need.
With Kenya’s large youth population facing urgent employment challenges, this initiative aligns closely with national development goals, including African Vision 2063 and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformative Agenda (BETA), and represents a practical step toward building a stronger and more inclusive economy.
Meanwhile, the optimistic plan is set to roll out in the coming weeks, with details on eligibility, training schedules, and regional outreach expected soon. For thousands of young Kenyans, volunteering will no longer be just an act of giving back—it will become a steppingstone to a brighter future.
by Michael Omondi
