From (left) KCB Foundation Director Mendi Njonjo with Kisii County Governor Simba Arati during the signing of MOU
Kisii County, Kenya — In a significant move to address youth unemployment in Kisii County, the KCB Foundation has announced a partnership with the county government to provide technical vocational skills training. This initiative is backed by a total investment of KShs. 50 million, with KCB Foundation matching the county’s KShs. 25 million investment.
The partnership aims to catalyze economic growth at the grassroots level by fostering the development of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through comprehensive vocational training. The training will be conducted under KCB Foundation’s flagship program, 2Jiajiri, which focuses on formalizing the informal job sector to make it more attractive to the youth.
During the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), KCB Foundation Director Mendi Njonjo emphasized the importance of supporting the economic agenda for the youth. “We pride ourselves in our flagship programme – 2Jiajiri – which aims to enhance development by leveraging small and medium enterprise development to spur job creation,” Njonjo stated. She highlighted the Foundation’s commitment to providing access to capital, capacity-building, and mentorship to empower young entrepreneurs.
Kisii County Governor Simba Arati expressed his commitment to improving the economic prospects of the county’s youth. “This approach not only empowers the youth with technical skills but also catalyzes the economic prospects of our MSMEs through strategic training and access to capital,” he said. Governor Arati stressed the critical role of MSMEs in driving the local economy and attracting investment.
The training will be conducted at National Industrial Training Authority (NITA) certified institutions, ensuring that participants receive recognized certification. Alongside technical skills, the youth will also benefit from entrepreneurial and financial management training, as well as support for startup financing and working capital.
Additionally, the county government will facilitate opportunities for industrial attachments and internships, fostering a smooth transition into the workforce. By engaging with both public and private sectors, the initiative aims to create a robust network for employment opportunities.
Founded in 2007, the KCB Foundation implements KCB Bank Group’s Corporate Social Investment programs with a mission to promote sustainable development and alleviate poverty. Through strategic partnerships and diverse programs like 2Jiajiri, the Foundation continues to enhance the well-being of communities across Kenya.
This partnership marks a significant step towards empowering Kisii County’s youth, equipping them with the skills necessary to thrive in an increasingly competitive job market while bolstering the local economy.