The Kenyan government has introduced a new skills development and livelihood support programme aimed at empowering 450 vulnerable youth and women across Nairobi, Kilifi, Kisumu, Isiolo, and Samburu counties.

Unveiled during the Fifth Programme Steering Committee meeting of the Peacebuilding and Preventing Violent Extremism in East Africa Programme, the initiative is part of the Building Resilience and Community Empowerment for Peace (BRACE4PEACE) Programme. It is a collaborative effort involving the Kenyan government, the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and various technical and vocational education institutions.

Focus on Community Resilience and Economic Opportunities

Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration, Raymond Omollo, emphasized that sustainable peace and security rely on addressing the social and economic vulnerabilities that expose communities to crime and violent extremism.

"Strengthening community resilience, promoting social cohesion, and expanding economic opportunities must work hand in hand to mitigate risks," Omollo stated.

Tailored Training for Diverse Economic Contexts

The programme targets 90 participants in each of the five counties, offering market-relevant training aligned with local economic potentials:

  • Nairobi: Digital solutions and ICT
  • Kilifi: Coastal tourism
  • Kisumu: Cage aquaculture
  • Isiolo and Samburu: Beekeeping, beadwork, and handicrafts

Beyond training, the initiative includes coordinated support to help beneficiaries transform skills into viable enterprises, including access to business licenses, financing, mentorship, markets, and digital platforms.

Broader Prevention Strategy and Electoral Security

Omollo highlighted the importance of community-based approaches in preventing recruitment into extremist and criminal networks, noting that grievances such as marginalization often fuel such involvement. He called for enhanced cooperation between national and county governments, community leaders, and security agencies.

As Kenya prepares for the 2027 General Election, the government has formulated a comprehensive strategic plan to ensure peaceful participation and prevent political violence. Measures are underway to tackle politically motivated criminal activities and hooliganism, with an emphasis on responsible campaigning and political tolerance.

The initiative complements existing programmes like the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement Programme, aiming to provide youth with skills and entrepreneurship opportunities.

Call for Responsible Use of Technology and Disaster Preparedness

The Principal Secretary also underscored the need to empower communities and young people to use digital technology responsibly, mitigating exposure to misinformation and extremist content. Additionally, he urged preparedness for the upcoming rainfall season to protect vulnerable livelihoods.

Stakeholders present at the meeting included representatives from the National Cohesion and Integration Commission, UNDP Kenya, and KOICA.