Over 100 youths in Nakuru County are undergoing training on Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enhanced Digital Marketing to enhance their employability and create income-generating opportunities.
The training program is being conducted by Generation Kenya in partnership with the County Government of Nakuru.
According to County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Education, ICT, e-Government and Public Communication Ms Zipporah Wambui the training has been designed to equip the youth with various computer literacy, digital marketing, online entrepreneurship, and financial literacy skills.
Speaking at the Shabab Digital Hub where the initiative is being conducted Ms Wambui said a comprehensive work plan and roadmap had been developed to guide the successful implementation of the initiative, ensuring impactful outcomes and long-term sustainability.
“The initiative aims to equip the youthful generation with practical digital skills that can enable them to tap into opportunities within the growing digital economy. This reflects a shared commitment by Governor Susan Kihika’s administration and its partners to empowering young people through technology and innovation,” she stated.
Wambui pointed out that through the training, participants are gaining knowledge in digital marketing and other online skills that can help them secure remote work opportunities and become competitive in the modern job market.
She underscored the importance of the digital programme, saying that it will go a long way in ensuring capacity building is done from the lowest level.
The CECM advised the youth to take full advantage of such opportunities, noting that the world is rapidly shifting towards technology-driven solutions and online employment.
She further urged young people to consider enrolling in Vocational Training Centres across the county, emphasizing that the county government has made training more accessible through bursaries and other support programs.
She highlighted that under the leadership of Governor Kihika, the county government is prioritizing youth empowerment through education, digital skills development and infrastructure.
Wambui noted that the upcoming markets being developed across the county will also incorporate ICT hubs, creating more spaces where young people can access digital resources and grow their skills.
“The students are also being trained on basic computer skills, online safety and how to behave online,” said the official.
She urged the youths to use the digital skills responsibly.
ICT County Director Leonard Kirui said the empowerment program is aimed at transforming youths into productive and digitally skilled individuals.
“By providing hands-on learning experiences, the initiative bridges the digital divide in all the 11 Sub-Counties and empowers youth with the tools to thrive in an increasingly digital world,” Kirui said.
He added: “The program is a sign of commitment to sustainable development to alleviate poverty and enhance development.”
The Director indicated that despite the youthful population being a vital asset for the county’s economic growth, unemployment remains a pressing issue that hinders their meaningful contribution to the economic growth.
Kirui emphasized the importance of equipping young people with practical skills that create economic opportunities and foster personal growth.
“Young people are vulnerable to addiction, identity crises and abusive relationships. We must empower them with the right skills and opportunities to secure their future,” noted the official.
He added: “The impact of this training is expected to be profound; with participants gaining the skills needed to create sustainable growth strategies for their businesses, develop targeted advertising campaigns, and build strong communities around their brands.”
Kirui underscored the importance of digital skills in empowering women and youth, positioning them to thrive in a rapidly evolving global economy.
He affirmed that the county government was dedicated to fostering partnerships that offer meaningful opportunities for youth and women to unlock their full potential and contribute to the devolved unit’s economic growth.
“We are excited to work with Generation Kenya to nurture a vibrant ecosystem of innovation and enterprise. Our goal is to equip our youth and women with skills and opportunities they need to succeed, thereby fueling economic growth and community development across the county,” he noted.
By Jane Ngugi
