Bridge the gap: Machakos launches tech initiative to fight youth unemployment

This story has significance for readers across Kenya and beyond.

- A new technology-driven employment initiative is expected to expand access to verified job opportunities for thousands of young people in Machakos

- The programme seeks to address youth unemployment by simplifying recruitment and connecting employers with qualified job seekers

- It also aligns with Machakos county's development plan, which identifies unemployment as one of the biggest contributors to poverty among young people

A new initiative targeting youth unemployment in Machakos aims to make it easier for young people to access verified job opportunities through technology.

The programme, launched on Friday, July 31, brings together entrepreneur Eric Muli and recruitment platform Joby to improve connections between employers and job seekers by simplifying recruitment and expanding access to genuine employment opportunities.

Speaking during the launch, Muli said Kenya's economic growth depends on practical solutions that bridge the gap between skilled young people and available jobs.

"Technology can transform how people access opportunities. Through this partnership, we are simplifying recruitment, connecting employers with skilled talent and helping young people build sustainable careers. When we invest in solutions that bridge the gap between talent and opportunity, we strengthen our communities and unlock economic growth," he said.

12 Kenyan founders selected for up to KSh 12 million funding in new Mastercard Foundation fellowship

The initiative is aligned with the Machakos County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP) 2023-2027, which identifies unemployment as one of the leading causes of poverty.

According to the county blueprint, lack of economic activity accounts for 74.4% of poverty among working-age adults and 36.7% among young people.

What is Joby's role in creating job opportunities?

Joby's founder, Joram Theuri, said the collaboration seeks to create a more inclusive employment ecosystem while improving confidence in the recruitment process.

"Our goal is to create a trusted recruitment ecosystem where talent and opportunity meet without barriers. This collaboration will give employers greater confidence in the people they hire while enabling more young people to access meaningful employment," he said.

Under the partnership, verified job opportunities will be published every month, with the initiative focusing on sectors including media, hospitality, technology and the creative industry.

The platform pledged to provide verified job listings at no cost to job seekers, making it easier for young people to access genuine employment opportunities. Meanwhile, the programme aims to strengthen connections between employers and skilled young professionals across Machakos.

Source: TUKO.co.ke

Reporting originally appeared via TUKO. Read the full source for additional context.