The Kenyan government has introduced a new programme aimed at empowering 450 vulnerable youth and women from five counties with skills and livelihood support to combat crime and violent extremism.

Unveiled during the Fifth Programme Steering Committee meeting of the Peacebuilding and Preventing Violent Extremism in East Africa Programme, the initiative focuses on community-led peacebuilding, social cohesion, and economic empowerment.

Programme Details and Implementation

The initial group includes 90 participants each from Nairobi, Kilifi, Kisumu, Isiolo, and Samburu counties. The programme, named Resilient Livelihoods and Vulnerable Youth and Communities Empowerment Initiative, is part of the Building Resilience and Community Empowerment for Peace (BRACE4PEACE) Programme.

It is a collaborative effort involving the Government of Kenya, the Republic of Korea through KOICA, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), technical and vocational institutions, and various peacebuilding partners at national and community levels.

Targeted Training Areas

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

The training is tailored to each county's economic potential and aims to improve employability, entrepreneurship, and income generation.

Addressing Root Causes of Insecurity

Internal Security PS Raymond Omollo emphasized that sustainable peace requires addressing social and economic factors that make communities vulnerable to crime and extremism. He highlighted that many individuals involved in criminal and extremist activities often feel marginalized or neglected.

Omollo called for a comprehensive approach involving national and county governments, community and religious leaders, civil society, development partners, the private sector, and youth. He also urged coordination with the National Cohesion and Integration Commission and other institutions to prevent conflicts and promote peaceful coexistence.

In preparation for the October to December rainfall season and the 2027 General Election, the government has developed strategic security plans to ensure peaceful participation in the electoral process.

Stakeholders Involved

  • State Department for Internal Security and National Administration
  • National Cohesion and Integration Commission
  • National Steering Committee on Peacebuilding and Conflict Management
  • Inter-Religious Council of Kenya
  • Technical and vocational education and training institutions

The meeting also featured NCIC Chairperson Bishop Dr. Kepha Nyamweya Omae, UNDP Kenya Deputy Resident Representative for Programmes Madelena Monoja, KOICA Deputy Country Director Jooyoung Baek, and other partners.