In a bit to enhance self-employment and entrepreneurship among the youth, 20 young people from West Pokot County have benefited from grants totaling Sh800,000. The beneficiaries emerged successful following a competition dubbed the Ajira Poa Dragon that vetted 80 business proposals.
According to Peter Nyorsok, the Executive Director of ADS North Rift region, the Ajira Poa project is implemented in partnership with Danida Church. This intervention program targets to equip the youth with market-driven skills that will enhance the prospects of their employability in formal and self-employment. Nyorsok expressed the hope that the intervention would steer the youth clear from retrogressive cultural practices, like banditry, by opening up viable economic opportunities for them.
Under the project, the youth underwent rigorous business planning and development training. Nyorsok added that besides the grants offered for financial support, the project incorporates mentorship that allows the youth to find their career paths. Ajira Poa investors, therefore, stand exposed to a clear array of different opportunities ranging from TVET courses to career workshops, life skills training, entrepreneurship trainings, and finance for education and business.
The grants’ beneficiaries have already started various enterprises. In their count, there is digital content creation, salons, beadwork, and tailoring. One of the beneficiaries, Janet Cheruto of Talau location, showed enthusiasm for a Sh 50,000 grant, which enabled her to earn a living through beadwork. Janet said that through the project, many women had been empowered to improve their livelihoods and provide for their financial obligations without necessarily waiting for their husbands.
The function held at the Kapenguria Youth Centre was attended by Rebecca Kide, County Executive for Education and Technical Training. The county boss announced intentions to collaborate with four vocational training centers in Kodich, Kapenguria, Sigor, and Chepareia in a move meant to help youths develop skills relevant for their careers of interest.
Nyorsok reiterated the need to take back career counseling, coaching, mentorship, and inspiration to the youth. The holistic support structure ensures that, as far as possible, young entrepreneurs are guided on how to surmount the challenge of starting and growing a business.
The Ajira Poa project is hosted in the county and is targeting 1,500 youths countrywide. It has also been launched in Nakuru and Nyandarua counties. This aggressive initiative underlines commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and economic independence for Kenya’s youth.