How to address youth unemployment in Kenya

Kenya is facing a dire situation as nearly 3.17 million young Kenyans eligible for work or school are idle, according to the latest report released by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics. The survey analyzed the labor market situation for the population aged 15 to 64 years for the period from April to June 2020. This alarming statistic reflects a significant increase in unemployment rates, soaring from 5.2% to 10%, primarily due to the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Various sectors such as transportation, aviation, hospitality, and construction have been severely hit, leading to widespread job losses and economic downturns. The repercussions of this high unemployment rate are casting a long shadow over Kenya's economic plans, with the country's growth expected to slow down to nearly 2% this year, compared to the initial projection of close to 6%. The formal sector, which saw about 78,000 new formal jobs created last year, pales in comparison to the over 700,000 informal jobs generated in the same period. The informal sector, which employs a large portion of the workforce, has been grappling with financial challenges and lack of support. While the government has taken some steps to assist businesses, more comprehensive efforts are needed to revive the economy and create job opportunities for the youth. The agriculture sector, a crucial backbone of Kenya's economy, has been identified as a key area for investment and growth. With the potential to prevent rural-urban migration and boost employment opportunities, revitalizing the agriculture sector could offer a lifeline for the youth who have been disproportionately impacted by the current unemployment crisis. Additionally, support for the informal sector and initiatives like the youth fund will be essential in providing sustenance and stability for young Kenyans facing joblessness. While the road ahead may be challenging, concerted efforts from the government, international organizations, and stakeholders are crucial in alleviating the youth unemployment crisis and setting Kenya's economy back on track.