Why Youth Unemployment is Skyrocketing in Kenya

Kenya has a large and rapidly growing population. As of 2023, youth unemployment stands at a staggering high, with over 50% of the population aged 15-35 being unemployed. This is not an isolated issue; it has persisted for decades and has deep roots in economic, political, and social factors. This article will delve into the multifaceted issues that contribute to the high levels of youth unemployment in Kenya and propose solutions.

The Overpopulated Economy

The primary reason for youth unemployment in Kenya is the country’s overpopulation. Kenya's population has grown significantly from 32 million in 2009 to 55 million in 2023. An economy of this small size struggles to support or even absorb this rapid population growth. Despite economic growth, the pace of job creation has not kept up with the increasing number of young Kenyans entering the job market annually (Statistics from the Central Bureau of Statistics).

Economic Inefficiency

Kenya’s economy, while primarily service-oriented, faces significant challenges. Corruption and misappropriation of funds for development purposes have sapped the economy of much-needed resources. For instance, according to the 2023 African Governance and Research Forum, corruption costs the Kenyan economy an estimated $8.4 billion annually. This financial waste has reduced the government’s ability to invest in job-creating sectors such as infrastructure, technology, and education.

Employer Unwillingness to Invest in Training

Another major contributing factor is the attitude of employers who are reluctant to invest in training young people. Many employers consider themselves part of the “microwave generation,” where workers need to be ready to start working immediately with minimal training. This mindset is problematic because it means that only a select few young people get a chance to enter the workforce, while the majority are left to fend for themselves. The reduction in job stability, combined with what many perceive as the employers' unwillingness to invest in the training and development of young workers, only exacerbates the problem.

Opaque Hiring Processes

Kenya’s employment landscape is plagued by opaque and non-transparent hiring practices. The process of finding work is often shrouded in mystery, making it difficult for young people to determine which companies are serious about hiring and which are merely taking advantage of the high demand for labor. This opaque system not only demotivates but also leaves many qualified young people at a disadvantage. According to a 2022 Kenyan Employers’ ----------------------------------------------------------------------------Report, 60% of young job seekers reported feeling that their job applications were ignored or mistreated, highlighting the need for more transparent processes.

Corruption and Misuse of Funds

Corruption has played a significant role in impeding economic development and job creation in Kenya. The misappropriation of funds meant for development projects has resulted in a lack of infrastructure, which affects productivity and investment. For example, the Kenya Roads Corporation has reported a significant delay in the completion of several infrastructure projects due to corrupt practices. This corruption directly impacts the ability of young Kenyans to find employment in burgeoning sectors such as construction and manufacturing.

Addressing the Issue: A Multi-Faceted Approach

To effectively address the issue of youth unemployment in Kenya, a multifaceted approach is needed. Building on the education sector to ensure young people are adequately equipped with necessary skills and knowledge is crucial. The government should also increase its investment in job-creating sectors, improve transparency in the hiring process, and root out corruption. Furthermore, fostering a culture of entrepreneurship can generate new opportunities for young people. By supporting start-ups and small businesses, the government can create jobs and stimulate economic growth.

Conclusion

Kenya’s high youth unemployment rate is a complex issue with no easy solutions. Overpopulation, small economic scale, corruption, opaque hiring processes, and the unwillingness of employers to invest in training are just a few of the key challenges. However, by implementing a combination of strategic policies and cultural changes, Kenya can begin to address this critical issue and pave the way for a more prosperous future.

References:

Kenya’s Central Bureau of Statistics for population growth and unemployment data African Governance and Research Forum (2023) for corruption data 2022 Kenyan Employers’ Report for transparency in hiring and application processes Kenya Roads Corporation for infrastructure project delays