Young people in Nandi County have been urged to venture into business and income-generating activities as the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry intensifies efforts to empower Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
Speaking during the launch of the Climate Smart Dairy Project at Tilalwa Multi-purpose Hall, KNCCI President Erick Rutto said the Chamber’s training programmes aim to onboard jobless youths and women into the business world.
“You should not wait for the government to offer you a job. While at home, shun idleness and engage in money-generating activities, including farming and starting small businesses,” said Dr. Rutto.
He noted that dairy farming using modern smart farming technologies has the potential to employ thousands of young people and boost household incomes.
Dr. Rutto spoke during a specialized training session conducted by KNCCI in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation under the Jitume Cross Program, which equips young entrepreneurs with financial literacy skills and links them to financial institutions.
KNCCI Special Operations Head Daniel Biketi said the programme supports youth by enhancing access to finance, strengthening business skills, and helping scale their enterprises.
He highlighted the Chamber’s digital marketplace platform, iSoko, which allows members to showcase products and services online, expanding market reach locally and internationally.
Over 300 youths have been trained so far, with additional sessions planned across Nandi County. The programme also targets young women aged 18–35 to promote gender empowerment and economic inclusion.
Participants pay a Sh300 annual membership fee, receive a Chamber membership certificate, and upon completing the training, are awarded a Chamber Academy certificate.
Leaders expressed optimism that the initiative, combined with climate-smart dairy farming and agribusiness ventures, will help address unemployment and strengthen the county’s economic resilience.
By Geoffrey Satia
