The beneficiaries received various equipment aligned with their training, including catering kits, hairdressing tools, barbering machines, computers, automotive repair equipment, and electrical installation tools.
The distribution was part of an initiative by the Kwale County Government under the Kenya Marine Fisheries and Socio-Economic Development (KEMSFED) project, which is funded by the World Bank.
Speaking during the handover ceremony held at the County headquarters, Governor Achani urged more young people to embrace vocational training as a path to economic independence.
“Vocational Training Centers (VTCs) equip our youth with practical skills that open doors to employment and entrepreneurship. We must move away from the outdated perception that vocational education is inferior. These skills are the foundation for job creation and improved livelihoods,” said Governor Achani.
She emphasized that the tools provided will empower the graduates to start their own businesses and become self-reliant.
Kwale County has already made significant investments in technical education, having constructed and equipped 43 modern VTCs and hired over 130 instructors to support quality training across the region.
County Executive Committee Member for Agriculture, Roman Shera, echoed the governor’s sentiments, underscoring the importance of practical skills in tackling unemployment.
“We must encourage our youth to take vocational training seriously. Many employment opportunities today are based on hands-on skills,” he said.
Among the recipients were Mwanaharusi Ramadhani from Waa Ng’ombeni and Liban Amin. They expressed gratitude for the support, stating that the tools would enable them to start income-generating activities.
“For a long time, girls have been seen only as future wives. But through this training, I now believe women have a significant role to play in the country’s economy,” said Mwanaharusi.
Through the KEMSFED Scholarship Program, more than 180 students in Kwale have so far been trained in key vocational fields, including Dressmaking, Tailoring, Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy, Electrical Installation, Plumbing, Masonry, ICT, and Motor Vehicle Mechanics.
By Faiz Musa Abdallah
