At least 785 trainees will benefit from this year’s Vijana Tujiajiri program in Kajiado through a joint partnership between the KCB Foundation and the County Government of Kajiado.
Kajiado Governor, Joseph ole Lenku, said the initiative provides young people with technical skills, job creation opportunities, and pathways to self-employment.
While addressing the trainees at the Isinya Vocational Training Centre, Lenku noted that the youth have a unique chance to advance themselves by creating opportunities for the future.
“We know that many Kenyans are currently suffering due to harsh economic conditions, but we are sure this program will alleviate the suffering even as we grow it in the future to cover all young people who wish to take advantage of it,” said Lenku.
He revealed that apart from the technical and vocational training offered at the centres, the county plans to introduce programs aligned to its transformation agenda of modulated pastoralism and livable towns.
“We are looking at incorporating current trends, including artificial intelligence and robotics, in addition to other areas of innovation as the world is dynamic and continuously changing,” added Lenku.
The first phase of the program will run for three years, after which the county plans to increase beneficiaries to 1,500 so that more youth can gain life skills, employ themselves, and create jobs for others.
The governor also expressed optimism that with the national government’s affordable housing program, many young people will secure employment opportunities.
KCB Foundation Head of Programs, Joblin Omari, said the initiative focuses on technical and vocational training across six economic pillars key ones being hospitality, construction, mechanics, and agriculture among others, enabling youth to earn an income.
“Besides banking, we exist to drive impact in communities, unlock potential and champion dreams of individuals and enterprises across this nation. Through the foundation, we have consistently focused on youth empowerment and sustainable livelihoods under initiatives such as the Tujiajiri Program, Mifugo ni Mali and the KCB Scholars Program,” said Omari.
He added that the program equips vulnerable and out-of-school youth with market-ready skills while offering practical exposure through industrial attachments, life skills, and work readiness. This approach bridges the gap between learning and earning.
Omari noted that under the program, 150,000 jobs have already been created and supported, with thousands of youths benefiting from trade-specific toolkits, business development support, and employment linkages.
He urged the trainees to seize the opportunity with courage and determination, stressing that the training is the foundation for their future.
“Learn, experiment, network and never stop believing in what you can achieve. Together, let us build a Kenya that knows no boundaries and where every youth has the tools and the platform to thrive,” advised Omari.
The program will cost Sh40 million and is jointly funded by the KCB Foundation and the County Government of Kajiado.
On his part, Isinya Senior Deputy County Commissioner, Michael Yator, said unemployment levels remain high in the country, but the program will help reduce the number of jobless youths.
He affirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring that all candidates transition to higher education levels to gain skills that can transform their lives and the country.
A former beneficiary, Benson Meoli, an electrical installation graduate of the first cohort in Kajiado, shared his success story.
“I am now self-employed and have hired five people in my company thanks to the skills I gained. I encourage youth to embrace vocational training because there are many opportunities if one is hardworking and self-motivated,” he said.
by Diana Meneto
