Turkana youth unlock opportunities with market-ready vocational training

In the heart of Turkana, a quiet revolution is taking place. Young people are not only gaining practical skills but also unlocking opportunities, starting businesses, and securing sustainable futures through market-ready training.

The County Department of Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET), in partnership with Nawiri’s Ujuzi Mashinani programme, is delivering life-changing vocational training in remote centres such as Kanaodon and Kagitankori.

Here, hundreds of youth are learning trades that are reshaping their lives and transforming their communities.

As part of the Ujuzi Mashinani initiative in Katilu and Kalapata Wards, trainees are acquiring essential skills in mechanics, hairdressing, electrical work, plumbing, and masonry—skills designed to foster self-reliance and reduce poverty at the grassroots.

Opening doors to learners

Chief Officer for Sports and Vocational Training, Robert Loyelei, commended the programme for opening doors to learners from all backgrounds.

"Group-based training empowers these young people to start businesses, seize opportunities, and remain resilient," he said, adding that the county is working to make training more accessible by localising centres and tailoring sessions to community needs.

Nawiri’s Alternative Livelihoods and Markets Officer, Salim Imoni, highlighted that Ujuzi Mashinani goes beyond skills training:

"This programme is about mindset change. It's about long-term commitment to learning and building strong, self-sufficient households to combat malnutrition and poverty."

Business skills

He explained that trainees also receive business skills and support in enterprise registration to ensure their ventures are market-ready and sustainable.

Deputy Director of Vocational Training, Jeremiah Loyapan, urged learners to apply their skills beyond the classroom:

"These skills must go beyond the classroom. They must be used to build businesses and livelihoods."

Students are already voicing their hopes for the future. Jackline Liwan, a hairdressing trainee, expressed gratitude but asked for extended training periods:

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• Northern Kenya
• TVET
• Turkana youth
• youth practical skills
• Ujuzi Mashinani
• Nawiri
• Turkana youth unlock opportunities with market-ready vocational training
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"This programme has helped us so much, but we need more time for additional courses," she said.

Her classmate, Ruth Akutan, appealed for start-up equipment to help them put their skills into practice.

In response, Nawiri has equipped training centres with starter tools and materials across different trades, ensuring graduates are ready to begin their entrepreneurial journeys.

With over 500 students currently enrolled in Katilu and Kalapata Wards, Ujuzi Mashinani is proving to be more than just a training initiative—it is a launchpad for a new generation of skilled, self-reliant youth in Turkana.