The Safaricom Foundation has partnered with the Nakuru County Government to offer digital skills training to over 500 young people in a move aimed at enhancing their employability and income-generating potential.
Clive Jabedo, a team leader at Safaricom, stated that the program is designed to equip participants with essential skills in computer literacy, digital marketing, online business, and financial management. These skills are tailored to meet the current demands of the digital job market. A well-structured implementation plan and roadmap will guide the rollout of the training to ensure its success and sustainability.
Speaking during a meeting between representatives from Safaricom Foundation and Nakuru County’s Department of Youth, Sports, Gender, and Inclusivity, Jabedo emphasized the significance of grassroots-level training. He mentioned that the program will focus on youths from informal settlements such as Kaptembwa, Biashara, Kivumbuni, Rhonda, and Flamingo. Each of these areas will receive 100 training slots. In addition, students will be trained in basic computer skills, online conduct, and internet safety.
Digital economy
Jabedo encouraged young people to apply the digital skills they acquire responsibly to improve their chances of employment in today’s digital economy. Josephat Kimemia, the Acting County Chief Officer for Youths, stated that the goal of the program is to transform young people into skilled, responsible, and productive individuals. He added that the initiative will help bridge the digital gap in all 11 sub-counties of Nakuru by offering practical learning experiences.
Kimemia reiterated the county’s dedication to inclusive digital progress, especially for women and young people in rural and underserved communities. He explained that while youth form a significant portion of the population and hold great potential, unemployment continues to hinder their contributions to economic development. Providing them with practical skills, he said, will not only support personal growth but also create new economic opportunities.
He further noted that the training would have a lasting impact, enabling participants to build sustainable businesses, run targeted online marketing campaigns, and develop strong digital communities. Kimemia highlighted the importance of such empowerment programs in addressing issues like youth addiction, identity struggles, and unhealthy relationships.
He praised Governor Susan Kihika’s administration for prioritizing partnerships that unlock youth and women’s potential. He affirmed that policy frameworks are already in place to provide them with the necessary tools and opportunities for success, thereby supporting economic growth and community development.
“This collaboration with the Safaricom Foundation marks a positive step toward creating a vibrant, innovative, and entrepreneurial environment for the youth and women of Nakuru County,” Kimemia concluded.