The County Government of Turkana, in partnership with the Ujuzi Mashinani programme by Nawiri, is equipping hundreds of young people with practical skills to transform livelihoods and strengthen household resilience across Katilu and Kalapata wards.
Officials from the County Technical Vocational and Education Training Department and Nawiri visited satellite vocational centres in Kanaodon and Kagitankori, where trainees are undergoing hands-on training in fields such as hairdressing, plumbing, mechanics, masonry, and electrical work.
Chief Officer for Sports and Vocational Training, Robert Loyelei, commended the initiative for opening opportunities to learners of all educational levels.
“Group-based training equips trainees to start businesses, tap opportunities, and stay resilient. As a county, we will continue to support them by bringing training centres closer and tailoring schedules to community needs,” he said.
Nawiri’s Alternative Livelihoods and Markets Officer, Salim Imoni, noted that Ujuzi Mashinani is more than technical training.
“The programme is about mindset change. It calls for commitment to learning, and its long-term goal is to eradicate malnutrition through stronger, self-reliant households. That’s why we also integrate business skills and enterprise registration to ensure graduates are market-ready,” he explained.
Deputy Director of Vocational Training, Jeremiah Loyapan, urged students to apply their skills beyond the classroom.
“These skills must be turned into businesses and livelihoods. That is how real impact will be achieved,” he said after engaging learners on their progress and challenges.
Students have already expressed enthusiasm for the programme. Jackline Liwan, a trainee in hairdressing, described the programme as life-changing but appealed for more time to cover additional courses.
Her colleague, Ruth Akutan, called for support with start-up equipment to help graduates put their skills into practice.
To support trainees, Nawiri has provided start-up toolkits covering hairdressing, plumbing, masonry, mechanical, and electrical trades.
Enrollment has been encouraging, with more than 500 students currently pursuing vocational skills across Katilu and Kalapata wards.
County officials and partners believe this initiative will not only boost youth employment but also lay a foundation for resilient, self-sufficient households in Turkana.