I had the incredible honor of moderating the Youth Session at the just concluded Devolution Conference, centered around the theme “Empowering Youth for Inclusive Economic Growth: The Role of the Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda in Kenya.”

The session offered insightful reflections on the impressive strides achieved in bolstering youth empowerment through skill development, entrepreneurship, talent management, and innovation. It also delved into the challenges hindering this progress, while actively exploring avenues to capitalize on present opportunities in order to pave the way for a sustainable future for the nation.

The session, under the leadership of H.E Simon Kachapin, the Governor of West Pokot County, featured a keynote address by Mr. David Bagenda from the MasterCard Foundation. Alongside me were esteemed panelists, each a distinguished individual in their respective fields:

• Dr. Yulitta Mitei, Deputy Governor of Nandi County
• Dr. Tonny K. Omwansa, PhD, CEO of the Kenya National Innovation Agency
• Eng. Stephen Ogenga, CEO of the National Industrial Training Authority
• Ms. Edna Karijo, Digital Skills Programs Manager at eMobilis
• Abel Mutua, Zero Malaria Starts with Me Ambassador and Film Maker
• Mohammed Gololcha, Coordinator of the Isiolo Youth Innovation Centre
• Ms. Patricia Jelagat, Founder & CEO of Hortigrid Limited

The outcomes and insights derived from this session are poised to shape the trajectory of youth empowerment in all the 47 counties. Here are the key takeaways:

Commitment to Addressing Mental Health Issues:

The importance of providing psychosocial support to youth facing challenges like substance abuse, suicide, abuse, unemployment, and domestic violence was acknowledged. The Council of Governors, guided by the Youth Committee Chair, committed to establishing a comprehensive framework to address mental health issues at the county level. Allocating resources to this sector is paramount not only for safeguarding youth well-being but also for preparing them for the job market.

Strategic Skill Set Mapping:

To bridge the existing skills gap and align the education system with job market demands, a robust investment in skill set mapping is proposed. This initiative will draw from county visions, Vision 2030, global trends, and market needs. By matching educational outputs with skill requirements, we can mitigate the overproduction of certain skills contributing to unemployment. Both technical and soft skills are emphasized to prepare youth for evolving markets.

Leveraging Labor Migration for Prosperity:

The potential of skills export to generate foreign exchange and stimulate economic growth is recognized. Integrating labor market systems to bridge local and global labor needs is crucial. Establishing a mechanism for repatriating skilled workers after a defined period can tap into their enriched experience. Equitable remuneration and decent work should be prioritized in the labor migration policy.

Fostering Collaborative Synergy:

Collaboration among stakeholders including National and County governments and Development partners is pivotal for demand-driven skills interventions. A united effort allows pooling resources, insights, and strengths for accelerated positive change. The youth are encouraged to harness partnerships and collective abilities for shared goals.

Universities as Catalysts for Innovation:

Local universities and their enterprising students hold the potential to drive innovative solutions. Encouraging academia’s engagement with real-world issues empowers students with practical experience and insight. This relationship can yield transformative outcomes for the nation.

Creating Enabling Environments for Youth Enterprises:

A conducive environment for youth entrepreneurship is critical for economic growth. County governments should streamline fees and permitting procedures, particularly for creative industries like film. This approach stimulates entrepreneurship and nurtures economic vibrancy.

Establishing an Innovation Repository:

A repository capturing youth-generated innovations is proposed. This platform connects stakeholders and potential investors to support ideas, fostering innovation and scaling impactful initiatives.

Enhancing Communication Channels:

Efficient communication between National/County governments and the youth is vital. Content creators can facilitate awareness campaigns and information dissemination. Simultaneously, the youth should seek accurate information to commercialize their innovations.

Holistic Skills Development:

Responding to the evolving labor market, holistic skills development is emphasized. While hard skills are crucial, nurturing soft skills enhances youth adaptability and employability for both local and global markets.

Expanding Regional Incubation Centers:

Recognizing the importance of nurturing ideas and startups, expansion of incubation centers at regional, county, and ward levels is recommended. This ensures proximity and accessibility for youth.

These recommendations and action points underscore the Council of Governors’ commitment to youth empowerment, innovation, and sustainable growth. Addressing mental health, fostering skill development, encouraging collaboration, and creating an enabling ecosystem all aim to usher in a brighter future for Kenya’s youth and the nation as a whole.