Youth Skills Development

Nairobi is home to thousands of young refugees who have fled conflict and instability in neighboring countries. These youth arrive with dreams of rebuilding their lives but face significant barriers to education and employment. Without access to formal schooling or vocational training, many struggle to find stable livelihoods, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation and poverty. However, targeted skills development programs are proving to be a lifeline, offering refugee youth the tools they need to secure better futures.

Challenges Faced by Young People

The challenges these young people face are immense. Many have had their educations abruptly interrupted by displacement, making it difficult to reintegrate into formal schooling systems. High fees, language barriers, and lack of documentation further limit their opportunities. Even those who complete their education often find themselves shut out of the job market due to restrictive work permit policies and employer discrimination. As a result, many refugee youth are forced into informal, low-paying jobs with little security or prospects for advancement. Beyond economic hardships, they also grapple with trauma, social isolation, and xenophobia, which can erode their confidence and hope for the future.

Despite these obstacles, numerous organizations in Nairobi are working to empower refugee youth through skills training and education. Vocational programs, such as those run by RefuSHE and Don Bosco Tech Africa, teach practical skills like tailoring, automotive repair, and plumbing, enabling young refugees to earn sustainable incomes. Digital literacy initiatives, including Refugee Code Camp and ALX Kenya’s training programs, open doors to remote work and tech careers, which are increasingly in demand. Entrepreneurship training and microloan projects, such as those offered by The BOMA Project, help young refugees launch their own businesses, fostering self-reliance and economic independence. Additionally, leadership programs like Refugee Youth Peace Ambassadors equip youth with advocacy and conflict resolution skills, empowering them to become voices for change in their communities.

The impact of these programs is evident in the success stories of young refugees who have transformed their lives through skills training. Amina, a Somali refugee, went from learning tailoring in a RefuSHE program to running her own fashion business in Eastleigh. Eric, a Congolese refugee, gained coding skills through Refugee Code Camp and now works as a freelance web developer for international clients. Fatuma, another young refugee, became a community leader after participating in peacebuilding workshops, advocating for education and gender equality. These stories demonstrate the immense potential of refugee youth when given the right opportunities and support.

Supporting these initiatives requires collective action. Individuals and organizations can contribute by funding or volunteering with training programs, offering internships and apprenticeships, and advocating for policies that expand education and work rights for refugees. Mentorship and professional networking opportunities can also help bridge the gap between training and employment. By investing in refugee youth, we not only transform individual lives but also strengthen Nairobi’s economy and social fabric.

The future of urban refugee youth in Nairobi hinges on our willingness to provide them with the skills and opportunities they need to thrive. With continued investment in education, vocational training, and inclusive policies, these young people can move from surviving to thriving, becoming leaders and innovators in their communities. The question is not whether they have the potential to succeed—it’s whether we will give them the chance to prove it.