USAID Launches Employment Pathways Initiative to Create Jobs for Kenyan Youth

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), through its Mission Director David Gosney, has reaffirmed its commitment to Kenya’s economic growth with the launch of the USAID Employment Pathways initiative. This transformative program, announced in Kilifi County, represents a new KSH 1 billion ($8 million USD) investment in youth workforce training, aimed at equipping young Kenyans with the skills needed to thrive in the modern job market.

Gosney, speaking at the launch, highlighted the enduring partnership between the United States and Kenya, which spans over six decades. "This strategic partnership between the American and Kenyan people is rooted in mutual commitment and respect. Together, we are empowering communities through investments in sectors like healthcare, education, water, sanitation, agribusiness, youth employment, and small business development," he said.

Kilifi and Mombasa Counties, known for its stunning landscapes and abundant resources, plays a pivotal role in Kenya’s economy. With its strategic location and wealth in agriculture, fisheries, and minerals, Kilifi and Mombasa has become a hub for investment and job creation.

"Kilifi’s potential for economic growth and investment opportunities is immense," Gosney noted. "Our focus here is on creating jobs that transform lives and communities. A bright future for Kenyan communities will be driven by millions of new, great-paying jobs in counties like Kilifi."

Over the past two years, USAID has invested 777 million KSH ($6 million USD) in Kilifi’s textile, medical manufacturing, and agro-processing industries. These investments have catalyzed an additional 3 billion KSH ($23 million USD) in private sector funding, creating over 6,800 new jobs and generating 8.5 billion KSH ($66 million USD) in exports to the United States.

Image: USAID Mission Director David Gosney

Recognizing the importance of job skills, USAID has been actively training young Kenyans. Through the Young African Leaders Initiative, nearly 150 youth from Kenya’s coast region have been equipped to turn their passions into sustainable livelihoods.

One inspiring example is Bosco Juma from Mombasa, whose organization has planted over 300,000 mangroves, integrating conservation with tourism to create jobs for local youth.

The newly launched USAID Employment Pathways initiative builds on this momentum by targeting students in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions in Kilifi, Machakos, Mombasa, and Nakuru. The program aims to align TVET curricula with industry demands in information technology, textiles and apparel, and pharmaceuticals.

"By directly linking businesses with TVETs, we are ensuring that young Kenyans are trained in skills that employers need," Gosney said. The program is expected to create at least 11,000 jobs and forge long-lasting partnerships between employers and TVET institutions.

As Gosney officially launched the USAID Employment Pathways activity, he emphasized its potential to catalyze economic growth and transform the lives of thousands of Kenyans.

"This initiative represents a new chapter in our partnership with Kenya, focusing on empowering youth, creating jobs, and building a sustainable future for all," he concluded.

With Kilifi and Mombasa Counties at the forefront, the USAID Employment Pathways initiative is set to be a game-changer in addressing unemployment and building a prosperous, self-reliant Kenya.