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Youth Skills Projects in Kenya: Employment and Economic Mobility

Youth Skills Projects in KenyaKenya’s youth skills are transforming how young people transition from education to stable employment. In Kenya, youth unemployment continues to limit economic mobility, particularly among those aged 18 to 34. Despite being the largest working-age group in the country, young people have significantly higher unemployment rates than older workers.

Youth skills projects in Kenya are increasingly tailoring training to corporate demands, entrepreneurial opportunities and emerging industries. These programs are helping reduce poverty by creating stable income opportunities for vulnerable households.

Youth Unemployment in Kenya Limits Economic Mobility

According to Kenya’s National Bureau of Statistics, the bulk of young people employed are in low-wage, informal jobs. Youth unemployment remains close to 13%, with young women facing higher rates at around 18%. These labor inequities undermine long-term economic resilience and exacerbate household poverty.

To address this issue, Kenyan youth skills programs increasingly focus on hands-on training that leads directly to employment and the establishment of businesses.

Government Training Programs Expand Workforce Readiness

Kenya’s government boosted Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) to align classroom better learning with labor market demands. Enrollment at public TVET institutions has increased from more than 345,000 to more than 565,000 trainees between the academic years 2022–2023 and 2024–2025. This represents a 63.8% increase as the Ministry of Education improved access, quality and industry alignment.

Officials are also implementing a Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) framework that closely aligns courses with real-world, industry-relevant skills. This method aims to help graduates enter the workforce with the skills businesses require and focuses on practical training valued by employers. The government announced plans to boost the number of young people participating in TVET programs to two million by the end of 2025.

To broaden access, it allocated additional funding for facilities, equipment and the recruitment of trainers. This expansion is expected to significantly reduce poverty by equipping youth with marketable skills that generate sustainable income.

Digital Skills Programs Connect Youth to Global Markets

The Kenyan government’s Ajira Digital Program, which collaborates with partners such as eMobilis and the Kenya Private Sector Alliance, provides free digital and online job training. The initiative has trained more than 250,000 young people in Kenya, with modules covering digital marketing, transcribing and other internet skills. According to a tracking poll commissioned by Ajira, nearly one-third of participants report earning money online after completing the course.

By connecting youth to online income streams, the program tackles poverty and expands economic opportunity nationwide.

Green Energy and Agribusiness Training Create Local Jobs

Kenya’s renewable energy expansion has boosted demand for solar technicians and electrical installers. Training facilities like Strathmore Energy Research Center offer solar certification courses to prepare young people for jobs installing and maintaining off-grid energy systems. Moreover, TechnoServe Kenya funds youth agribusiness training and market access programs.

The training has helped tens of thousands of young farmers boost productivity and incomes, particularly in rural areas. These initiatives reduce poverty by increasing household earnings and fostering entrepreneurship in local communities.

Conclusion

Kenya’s youth skills programs show how coordinated investments in technical education, digital training, renewable energy and agriculture can transform classrooms into economic growth engines. Youth skills projects in Kenya, government initiatives and nonprofit partnerships are helping young people gain practical skills, income opportunities and entrepreneurship pathways. They are now providing young people with practical skills, income opportunities and entrepreneurship pathways.

These initiatives improve household stability, lower unemployment and increase Kenya’s long-term economic resilience.

– Madison Brown

Madison is based in Nottingham, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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How Clean Energy in Kenya Is Powering Poverty Reduction

Clean Energy in KenyaWhen the sun sets over rural Kenya, darkness no longer marks the end of the day for many families. Clean energy increasingly influences daily life in communities that formerly relied on expensive fuel and smoky kerosene lamps. Children study after dusk, homes are brightened by solar lights and small businesses remain open later.

Renewable energy benefits the nation’s well-being and economy more than simply endorsing positive environmental pursuits. It actively supports poverty reduction in Kenya by expanding opportunities at the household level.

Expanding Clean Energy Access in Kenya

Millions of Kenyan families suffered from low productivity and bad health for decades due to energy poverty. Families spent a significant amount of their earnings on charcoal, firewood and kerosene. These fuels depleted cash and harmed people’s health.

Respiratory ailments were caused by indoor air pollution and opportunities for education and employment were limited by sporadic lighting. However, recent findings show how the nation has rewritten its past. Kenya has made great strides in expanding access to clean cooking and power through strong regulations and targeted infrastructure investments, according to a recent IEA assessment.

Kenya is positioned as a regional leader in economic and energy growth, thanks to its ambitious implementation plans. Its push for electrification using clean energy technology has put the country on track to achieve universal access to electricity by 2030. “Kenya is showing how the strategic deployment of clean energy technologies and electrification in end-use sectors can significantly improve the lives of millions of the most vulnerable people in the world,” stated IEA Deputy Executive Director Mary Burce Warlick.

A key contributing factor to this remarkable turnaround is the transition to clean energy. The nation is currently among the world leaders in clean power, producing more than 90% of its electricity from renewable sources. Large-scale initiatives like Lake Turkana Wind Power improved the country’s national grid and showed Kenya’s dedication to sustainable development.

Solar Power’s Impact in Kenya

This shift links clean power directly to long-term poverty reduction in Kenya by supporting inclusive economic development. Rural residents who would have had to wait years for grid connections can now get electricity immediately thanks to off-grid solar installations. Businesses like M-KOPA use pay-as-you-go methods to enable families to purchase solar systems with modest daily payments made with mobile money.

Millions of people now have dependable energy for the first time thanks to M-KOPA’s solar power connections to more than two million homes. Solar electricity facilitates exciting opportunities for people in Kenya. Parents may operate small home-run businesses, charge neighbors’ phones and extend store hours after dark with dependable electricity.

Reduced energy expenses provide free money for food, medical care and school tuition. Clean energy enhances pathways to poverty reduction in Kenya, enabling households to transition from a bare minimum existence to a more sustainable future, with potential for future investments. Additionally, clean energy enhances health outcomes, particularly for women and children.

Solar illumination reduces indoor air pollution and replaces kerosene lamps. Families are less likely to have fire hazards and respiratory issues. Furthermore, solar energy helps hospitals by supplying consistent illumination and refrigeration for vaccinations in isolated locations.

Final Remarks

The United Nations (U.N.) lists its Sustainable Development Goals, a notable aim being to ensure access to clean, affordable energy. Kenya’s journey toward sustainable energy is a story of possibility. The nation demonstrates that climate action and economic advancement can coexist by increasing access to reasonably priced renewable energy.

Clean energy today provides security, dignity and a practical way out of poverty for many Kenyan households.

– Prubleen Bhogal

Prubleen is based in London, UK and focuses on Good News, Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Pay-As-You-Go Digital Water Services in Kenya

Pay-as-you-go digital water services in KenyaKenya continues to face serious water insecurity in both rural and urban regions. Many households still depend on distant or unsafe water points because traditional billing systems require large monthly payments that low-income families cannot always make. Pay-as-you-go digital water services in Kenya offer a different model. Families buy small amounts of water through mobile payments and smart meters deliver accurate and dependable service. This structure increases affordability, improves service reliability and strengthens utilities in ways that help them expand clean water access to underserved communities.

Mobile Money Makes Clean Water Affordable

Pay-as-you-go digital water services in Kenya let households buy water in small increments through mobile money platforms like M-Pesa. This matters because many Kenyans earn irregular daily wages and cannot manage large monthly bills. When families pay only for what they need, they avoid debt and gain steady access to safe water, which supports health and financial stability.

Waterborne diseases spread quickly in communities that rely on unsafe sources. Pay-as-you-go digital water services in Kenya distribute treated water that meets safety standards, which reduces illness and lowers medical expenses. When families stay healthy, they attend school, work more regularly and invest their income in food and education rather than treatment costs.

Smart Meters and Water Kiosks

Smart meters record water use in real time and deliver prepaid service that prevents leaks and illegal taps. These problems create major losses for utilities and weaken their ability to maintain infrastructure. When utilities reduce losses, they provide more reliable service and reach more households with clean water, which raises community health and overall quality of life.

Families in many Kenyan settlements spend long hours each day collecting water. Digital water kiosks in neighborhoods reduce this travel time and offer 24-hour access through mobile payments. More available time allows children to attend school consistently and gives adults more hours for work, which strengthens household income and supports long-term development.

Digital Water Systems Create Jobs and Strengthen Utilities

Digital water systems create new roles for technicians, field agents and mobile service operators. These jobs build technical skills and support local employment. Stronger utilities also operate more reliably and expand service to new regions. When utilities stabilize financially, they improve infrastructure that helps entire communities gain safe water access.

Pay-as-you-go digital water services in Kenya improve clean water access by combining mobile payments with smart delivery systems. These services reduce financial barriers, improve public health and create jobs that support economic growth. As the model expands, it offers a practical path toward universal water access and long-term poverty reduction.

– Shahzeb Khan

Shahzeb is based in San Ramon, CA, USA and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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America First Global Health Strategy Investing in Kenyan Health

America First Global Health StrategyThe U.S.’s America First Global Health Strategy formalized a five-year agreement with Kenya, marking the first of many anticipated bilateral agreements with developing nations. Under this strategy, a co-investment model with Kenya has been established, allowing funding to flow directly from government to government, rather than through traditional channels such as USAID or nongovernmental organizations.

The America First Global Health Pact

On December 4, 2025, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Kenyan President William Ruto signed the America First Global Health Strategy. Under the agreement, the U.S. will invest up to $1.6 billion, while Kenya will contribute $850 million to support critical public health initiatives, including HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria and maternal and child health. The framework aims to strengthen healthcare infrastructure in developing nations while enhancing diplomatic relations.

As the first country to sign, Kenya serves as a test case for a potential major shift in global health partnerships. The America First Global Health Strategy reflects a shift in the U.S.’s foreign aid ideology. After dismantling the USAID earlier this year, which resulted in significant cuts in funding for several global health programs, the current administration has sought out a framework it hopes will support state sovereignty and self-reliance.

Strengthening Africa’s HIV Response Through Direct Funding

At the 23rd International Conference on AIDs and STIs in Africa, UNAIDS executive director, Winne Byanyima, argued that health management has not been a priority in Africa, where funds are typically allocated toward debt repayment, as opposed to community health. Africa accounts for the majority of new HIV cases globally, with women representing 62% of infections. Economic disparities and lack of access to education are contributing factors.

It is reported that 46% of adolescent girls are not enrolled in school, exposing them to sexual and gender based violence. UNAIDS has welcomed this framework, as it aligns with its goal of significantly reducing HIV infections by 2030. The initiative aims for 95% of people with HIV to know their status, 95% of those diagnosed to receive treatment and 95% of those treated to achieve viral suppression.

Direct funding to the Kenyan government is expected to strengthen its ability to respond promptly to public health concerns and maintain control over its health priorities.

What Kenya Risks

Despite its potential, there has been backlash. The Consumer Federation of Kenya is seeking to dismantle the agreement, arguing that it violates the constitution as it pertains to concerns with health data privacy. The Consumer Federation of Kenya also argues that there isn’t sufficient oversight as to how sensitive health information would be transferred and used.

The Nairobi High Court has suspended parts of the agreement pending a full hearing. There have also been concerns of service disruption during the transitional phase from the NGO programs.

A New Development Era?

If Kenya’s experience produces positive health outcomes, the America First Global Health Strategy can serve as a blueprint for American partnerships with other nations in Africa. So far, Uganda and Rwanda have also recently signed agreements under this co-investment model. Whether this agreement marks a breakthrough in global health cooperation is yet to be determined.

However, Kenya’s outcome will likely influence agreements with other developing nations and the evolution of international development policy in the 21st century.

– Gloria Bwenge

Gloria is based in New York, NY, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay

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Closing Kenya’s Gender Gap in Tech Education

Kenya's Gender GapIn 2025, Kenya is witnessing a transformative shift in education. Across cities, towns and rural villages, digital learning hubs are opening doors for women and girls to access science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education for the first time. This access is driven by both government-backed digital literacy campaigns and grassroots organizations such as AkiraChix. These initiatives aim to close Kenya’s gender gap in the technology sector and position young women as leaders in the country’s growing digital economy.

Kenya’s Government Connecting the Gender Divide

Kenya has long been recognized as one of Africa’s technology pioneers, with its capital city, Nairobi, earning the nickname “Silicon Savannah” for its start-up ecosystem. However, despite this progress, Kenya’s gender gap in digital access remains significant. According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), women occupy fewer than 30% of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) roles in Kenya, and mobile internet use is considerably lower among women than men.

To tackle this divide, Kenya’s government has launched several digital literacy initiatives under its Kenya Vision 2030 and national ICT strategy. These initiatives aim to expand computer access in schools, increase teacher training and extend technology access in low-income regions. The government’s 2030 goals would allow women and girls to gain stronger digital skills and develop a greater interest in STEM fields.

How AkiraChix Is Coding a New Future for Women

At the heart of this transformation is AkiraChix, a Nairobi-based nonprofit founded in 2010 that trains young women from underprivileged backgrounds in coding, design and entrepreneurship. AkiraChix runs a camp program that introduces girls to technology and design software. Its CodeHive program offers a fully subsidized, yearlong training in software development, product management and digital design for women ages 20-24.

According to AkiraChix’s 2022 Impact Report, more than 80% of graduates secure a placement or start their own ventures within six months of finishing the program. In its 2021 Impact Report, one 2020 alumna, Rebecca Wambui, said learning to code through the CodeHive program helped her realize that “I can also do this.” She has since developed a chatbot to help local farmers access affordable market prices.

Community Hubs Expand Rural Opportunities

Beyond Nairobi, a growing network of community digital learning hubs is making STEM education accessible in rural and low-income areas. UNESCO-supported programs have introduced more than 200 girls from 20 schools to robotics, mobile app design and 3D printing. Similar to AkiraChix’s programs, UNESCO bootcamps often give girls their first exposure to engineering and computer science. These programs play a key role in narrowing Kenya’s gender gap by increasing interest in STEM.

By equipping women with marketable STEM skills, Kenya is strengthening innovation and inclusive growth. Studies show that expanding digital access contributes directly to higher gross domestic product (GDP) and employment rates in developing nations. For graduates of AkiraChix, UNESCO programs and other digital hubs, the results include greater financial stability, improved livelihoods and stronger educational outcomes.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

Despite these gains, challenges remain. Many rural areas still lack stable electricity or affordable data, limiting the reach of digital learning. Additionally, cultural norms and gender stereotypes continue to discourage girls from pursuing STEM, and the cost of devices remains a barrier for low-income families.

Experts emphasize the need for sustained investment in infrastructure, teacher training and the integration of digital skills in school curricula, supported by public and private partners.

Kenya’s expanding digital learning ecosystem demonstrates how innovation and equality can intersect to drive national progress. By giving women and girls the tools to thrive in STEM, the country is working to bridge its gender gap in technology and build a more inclusive future.

– Abigail Ariyo

Abigail is based in Ottawa, Canada and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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How Kenya is Using Satellite Data to Settle Land Rights

satellite data to settle land rightsIn Kenya’s informal settlements, where more than half of urban residents live without formal land titles, a quiet shift is transforming how land rights are established. Through partnerships between the government and international organizations, Kenya is using satellite imagery and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to map and formalize land ownership, unlocking economic opportunities for millions of residents who have lived for decades without legal proof of ownership.

Mapping the Unmapped

Kenya’s use of satellite data to settle land rights begins with remote sensing technologies tested in regions like Kajiado County. Researchers developed smart sketch mapping systems combined with UAV technology to capture high-resolution images of informal settlements. According to a study published in the journal Remote Sensing in January 2020, these methods achieved ground sample distances of about six centimeters, offering unprecedented detail for land boundary mapping.

A fit-for-purpose approach used in Makueni County in 2017 showed that field data collection could be quick and affordable. As reported by GIM International, two surveyors collected data for about 40 parcels in six hours using handheld devices displaying satellite imagery on mobile screens. Villagers walked the perimeters of their land while GPS antennas recorded boundary points, creating a participatory process that directly links people to polygons on digital maps.

The KISIP Initiative

The Kenya Informal Settlements Improvement Project (KISIP) is the most comprehensive effort to formalize land tenure in urban areas. Launched in 2011 through a partnership between the Government of Kenya, the World Bank, the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency and the Agence Française de Développement, KISIP has benefited more than 1.4 million residents.

According to the State Department of Housing and Urban Development, KISIP operates in about 40 counties and focuses on land tenure regularization through planning, surveying and issuing ownership documents.

The project’s second phase, which began in March 2021, targets informal settlements located on uncontested public land. As People Daily reported in July 2025, KISIP2 has prepared more than 1,470 titles in Nyeri County alone, with 540 already issued.

Economic Transformation

The economic impact of secure land tenure goes far beyond property ownership. Title deeds can be used as collateral for bank loans, enabling residents to invest in permanent housing and small businesses. A 2019 Capital Blog article noted that residents of Nyalenda in Kisumu County used their new titles to access bank loans after receiving secure tenure through KISIP.

In November 2024, the Cabinet waived Sh12.3 billion in interest on land settlement loans, demonstrating the government’s commitment to unlocking land-based economic potential. According to Capital FM, the waiver will benefit thousands of settlers in 520 settlement schemes across 26 counties, helping them obtain title deeds and use them as collateral for investment.

Peter Kagai, an 80-year-old farmer from Kamuiri colonial village in Nyeri County, told People Daily that owning a title deed improved his life significantly, allowing him to secure loans to educate his children and invest in his farm.

Technology Meets Community

U.N.-Habitat’s Social Tenure Domain Model tool has proven effective in participatory mapping. In the Kwa Bulo settlement in Mombasa County, more than 1,000 Certificates of Occupancy were issued through participatory enumerations and mapping approaches. According to U.N.-Habitat, perceived tenure security led to increased economic activities, including new retail businesses and construction projects that created employment opportunities for youth.

Looking Forward

Kenya’s use of satellite data to settle land rights represents a model for other developing nations addressing informal land tenure. The combination of affordable satellite imagery, UAV technology and community-led mapping offers a scalable solution that respects local knowledge while providing legally recognized documentation.

As Flying Labs Kenya reported in October 2024, organizations continue expanding drone applications across humanitarian and development sectors, including land tenure mapping in counties like Kajiado.

With its ability to collect data quickly and cost-effectively, the technology is well-suited for large-scale land formalization programs. The success of these initiatives shows that technology-driven solutions, combined with partnerships and community participation, can address historical land injustices and create pathways to economic opportunity. For millions of Kenyans in informal settlements, satellite data and digital mapping tools are becoming essential to securing their future.

– Jawad Noori

Jawad is based in London, UK and focuses on Technology and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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5 Ways Kenya is Reducing Poverty

5 Ways Kenya is Reducing PovertyKenya, a country on the East African coast, has a population of around 56.4 million, where around 39% of the population lives below the national poverty line. The Kenyan government has recently made a pledge toward Kenya Vision 2030, which prioritises meeting its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), as well as working toward eradicating extreme poverty by turning Kenya into a middle-income country. These frameworks aim to promote long-term development while focusing on different “pillars of action”: economic empowerment, social protection, access to basic services, inclusive governance and environmental sustainability. Here are 5 ways Kenya is reducing Poverty: 

Social Protection Programs

As part of Kenya Vision 2030, social protection programs have been pushed to be implemented as a solution to rising poverty and inequalities (SDG 1 and 10). For instance, the Inua Jamii Programme transfers cash to vulnerable people, like orphans, the elderly and people with disabilities. Since 2018, the initiative has spent more than $230,000 per year helping the people of Kenya stay out of poverty. In Kenya, around 80% of its land is classed as arid and semi-arid (ASAL), meaning the amount of rainfall the regions receive annually is little to none.

The Hunger Safety Net Program (HSNP) helps provide regular cash transfers to these dry regions, which struggle to grow crops. Approximately, this program has helped stop almost 800,000 people from going hungry despite their agricultural limitations. These programs are all part of the National Safety Net Program (NSNP), which funds and promotes these various frameworks in hopes of improving the efficiency and reach of these initiatives. The NSNP is vital in helping Kenya reduce poverty across its lands.

Agricultural Transformation

Agriculture largely remains the backbone of Kenya’s economy, employing around 70% of the rural population. Under the Big Four Agenda, a presidential initiative first launched in 2017, food security is a large area of focus. The government began to promote the leasing and sales of agricultural equipment to enable farmers to have access to otherwise expensive equipment.

Similarly, the implementation of more support for those in agriculture allows for a more stable income. These acts are crucial to achieving zero hunger and decent work and economic growth (SDG 2 and 8) in aid of Kenya reducing poverty while also advancing Vision 2030’s goal of a stable and growing economy.

Universal Health Coverage

Kenya’s recent push toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC) is transforming access to health care across the country. The expansion of the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF), which now includes access for informal sector workers and vulnerable groups, is part of this shift. Community health volunteers (CHVs) are beginning to play a key role in delivering primary care at the lower grassroots levels of society.

Pilot programs in counties like Kisumu and Nyeri have proven the potential of UHC to reduce unnecessary expenses and improve health outcomes. These initiatives help support good health and well-being (SDG 3) and promote equitable health care as part of Kenya Vision 2030.

Education Access Equity

Education reforms are expanding across Kenya, improving access and quality of teaching. Free primary and subsidised secondary education have increased enrolment rates, while school feeding programs in marginalised areas have been shown to enhance attendance and nutrition amongst the children. Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions are equipping youth with market-relevant skills for the wider world. Digital literacy programs like Ajira Digital and the Presidential DigiTalent Program are aiming to prepare young Kenyans for the future of work, like learning key skills of data entry or transcription. These efforts are instrumental for quality education (SDG 4) to be achieved, as well as promoting Kenya Vision 2030’s focus on human capital development; these factors reflect Kenya’s reduction in poverty as well as a sense of changing hope for the new generations to come.

Youth Employment and Skills Development

Youth employment is a huge priority for the Kenyan government, with over 75% of its population being under 35. Programs like the Kenya Youth Employment Opportunities Project (KYEOP) offer training opportunities, internships and business grants. The project has helped more than 145,000 Kenyans participate in its programs, with around 125,000 direct jobs being created. It has promoted a 50% increase in wages for its beneficiaries and allowed the employment rate to rise to around 85% among its participants.

Looking Ahead

Overall, Kenya has made significant progress toward its SDGs, helping improve Kenyan livelihoods every day. Its poverty reduction strategy is bold and inclusive; however, challenges like the changing climate and urban poverty remain. Nonetheless, Kenya is reducing poverty levels and showing ongoing reform and innovation, offering hope for the future. As the country moves toward 2030, its vision remains clear for the future of its citizens.

– Megan Burrows

Megan is based in Birmingham, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Kenya’s National Debt Crisis: The Toll On Its Population

Kenya's National Debt Crisis: The Toll On Its Population Kenya’s national debt has risen significantly in recent months, increasing by almost KES100 billion. This comes as the nation’s economy grows at a rapid rate, in part because of loans taken out to improve infrastructure. Kenya’s situation reflects the tough decisions many developing countries face between short-term improvements and long-term sustainability. Meanwhile, some proposed solutions could support progress in both areas.

Origin of Kenya’s Debt

Kenya’s debt originates from two primary places: loans from other countries and loans from private organizations. One of its largest lenders is China, which provided significant financing for Kenya’s national railroad. As for private loans, Kenya has taken out substantial funding through Eurobonds, a type of international debt security. The numerous loans have compounded, trapping Kenya in a cycle of debt that is increasingly difficult to escape as interest accumulates.

Chatham House also noted that Kenya’s internal fund management issues have contributed to repayment challenges. The volume of loans taken out made long-term repayment more difficult despite short-term infrastructure gains. Regardless of the debt’s origins, Kenya’s high debt burden has led to further issues, particularly for its most vulnerable populations.

The Effect on Poverty

Given the large debt, the Kenyan government has prioritized interest repayments. This has caused public goods such as health care to receive less funding. Reduced investment in public works can lead to declines in quality of life. Additionally, many low-income households could face tax increases as the government seeks extra revenue. Afronomics Law reported that as Kenya’s national debt reached its ceiling in 2023, the increased burden could expand public debt, which is debt owed by citizens. Because of this, Kenya has been working to find ways to address debt while minimizing negative effects on its population.

Ongoing Efforts

Many organizations, both within and outside Kenya, have made recommendations for how the country should move forward. According to the World Bank, Kenya’s latest financial review suggested government restructuring to help address the debt challenge, primarily through stronger tax policy and improved efficiency in public spending. These steps would help strengthen the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) while reducing dependence on additional loans. The World Bank also noted that these measures could support job creation, helping to alleviate poverty. They stated that austerity measures are not recommended because they often come with severe costs to citizens.

Kenya’s government is also implementing its own strategies. Parliament recently passed an extensive debt mitigation plan to prevent further problems. The bill is not intended as a long-term solution but rather as a way to reduce damage caused by the existing debt. These strategies include increasing borrowing from domestic sources, which the national treasury determined would minimize external debt owed.

Looking Ahead

This decision between paying off loans and funding government programs does not have an easy answer. However, the examples above show that Kenya can take practical, actionable steps without worsening conditions for its citizens. Many other nations face similar debt challenges, and understanding how Kenya reached this point, and how it can move forward, could offer valuable insights for developing nations worldwide.

– Thaddeus Konieczny

Thaddeus is based in Williamston, MI, USA and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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What You Need to Know About Adult Education in Kenya

What You Need to Know About Adult Education in Kenya Education is one of the most effective tools for alleviating poverty, especially in developing countries. It drives economic growth, promotes equality, reduces mortality rates and violence, fosters civic engagement and supports sustainable development.

Over the past few decades, Kenya has made significant progress in expanding access to education. The country now has one of the highest adult literacy rates in Sub-Saharan Africa, rising from 61.5% in 2007 to 82.9% in 2025. However, challenges remain. High primary and secondary school dropout rates and limited access to post-primary education make adult education programs vital for bridging education gaps and promoting gender and regional equality across Kenya.

The Right to Education in Kenya

Kenya’s constitution guarantees every citizen the right to a basic education. Recognizing this, Kenya established the Department of Adult Education in 1979 to create adult education centers and literacy programs nationwide. In 2002, the department moved to the Ministry of Education and saw an increase in enrollment from 250,000 adult learners in 2007 to 291,000 in 2012. As of 2025, Kenya has about 3,219 adult education centers across all 47 counties. Through Vision 2030 and Adult and Continuing Education (ACE) programs, Kenya aims to achieve 100% adult literacy nationwide.

High Dropout Rates and Disparities in Early Education

Despite high enrollment rates and free primary and secondary education, dropout rates remain high, resulting in decreased adult literacy:

  • Pre-COVID enrollment rates sat at 93%.
  • Only 63% of boys and 68% of girls complete primary education.
  • Only 53% of students continue to secondary education.

Young girls are disproportionately affected and face higher secondary school dropout rates due to factors such as early marriage, pregnancy, poverty, cultural pressures and lack of mentorship. This contributes to higher rates of female illiteracy among adults. Regional and economic disparities, especially in rural and low-income areas, also pose barriers to completing early education and contribute to adult literacy gaps.

What Adult Education in Kenya Offers

Adult and Continuing Education (ACE) programs provide basic education and life skills training to adults and out-of-school youth (15+ years). In 2017, Kenya introduced the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), expanding access to online learning and digital skills training for the 21st century. The curriculum includes:

  • Literacy and numeracy
  • Digital and computer literacy
  • Agricultural, job readiness and entrepreneurship training
  • Financial literacy
  • Community learning projects and participation

For women who had to drop out of early education, ACE programs offer valuable opportunities to continue learning. Data from 1990, 2000, 2005 and 2023 consistently show that women make up the majority of adult learners. In 2023, 63.1% of all adult learners were women.

The Impact of Adult Education

Adult education benefits individuals and communities by helping learners:

  • Start businesses, manage finances and gain financial independence
  • Use technology for work and communication
  • Improve household food security through agricultural skills
  • Take on leadership roles in their communities
  • Access health care and government services
  • Advocate against gender-based violence and harmful practices such as female genital mutilation
  • Promote gender equality and social inclusion

Fluctuations in Adult Education Enrollment

  • From 1990 to 2000, enrollment dropped from 147,940 learners to 93,903.
  • When the Department of Adult Education moved to the Ministry of Education, adult learners increased to 107,662 in 2005, 250,000 in 2007 and peaked at 291,000 in 2012.
  • However, enrollment has declined in recent years. Data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) shows a 9.5% decrease from 138,628 in 2022 to 125,402 learners in 2023.

Persistent Challenges in Adult Education

Despite progress in access and quality, enrollment has declined due to several socio-cultural, logistical and structural barriers.

Stigma and Socio-Cultural Barriers:

  • Adults may feel shame or discouragement about attending school with or near children.
  • Cultural norms discourage women from participating.
  • Kenya’s many languages and dialects can limit inclusivity and access.

Logistical and Structural Barriers:

  • There is a shortage of educators, and many are unpaid, untrained or retiring without replacements.
  • Learners often have limited time and scheduling conflicts due to work or childcare.
  • Social events and irregular schedules cause frequent absences.
  • Rural areas face transport, infrastructure and technology barriers to both in-person and online classes.
  • Programs and learners often lack consistent funding for renting classroom space, purchasing furniture and supplies, and paying educators and tuition.

Strengthening Adult Education in Kenya

To overcome these challenges and reach the goals outlined in Kenya’s Vision 2030, the Department of Adult Education and nonprofit groups are working to:

  • Expand access and participation in adult learning
  • Improve teaching quality and education infrastructure
  • Promote digital and e-learning platforms
  • Create inclusive and stigma-free learning environments

Looking Ahead

Adult education provides a life-changing opportunity for many Kenyans to gain essential skills and knowledge and offers a promising path toward nationwide poverty alleviation and gender equality. While there has been progress, addressing the barriers behind declining enrollment rates remains crucial to achieving inclusive and quality education for all.

– Dylan Kretchmar

Dylan is based in Granville, OH, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Financing the Future: Samurai Bonds Helping Kenya Grow

Samurai bondsOn August 21, 2025, Kenya secured 25 billion yen (about $169 million) through Japan’s Samurai bond market, a yen-denominated debt instrument backed by Nippon Export and Investment Insurance. The deal is aimed at strengthening Kenya’s vehicle assembly industry and addressing inefficiencies in the energy grid, where transmission losses currently consume nearly a quarter of national output. This marks the first time Kenya has tapped into Samurai financing.

It underscored its efforts to diversify funding sources and pursue more cost-effective borrowing options to finance the future and help Kenya grow. Kenya’s gross public debt has climbed steadily in recent years, from 45.7% of gross domestic product (GDP) in 2015 to 67.8% in 2021. Infrastructure projects and reliance on Eurobonds and bilateral loans drive this. This makes the move toward Samurai financing particularly significant as part of a broader debt diversification strategy.

Why Samurai Bonds Matter

Samurai bonds are yen-denominated loans issued in Japan by foreign entities. For developing countries like Kenya, they represent a critical opportunity to access Japanese capital markets and secure funds at lower interest rates than many dollar-denominated loans. With global debt burdens rising, innovative tools like Samurai bonds provide nations with greater financial flexibility and protection from volatile Western credit markets.

Kenya’s choice to issue Samurai bonds reflects a broader global trend. Countries such as Indonesia and the Philippines have also experimented with similar instruments, demonstrating their usefulness as a way to diversify financing while strengthening international ties. Economists believe these types of bonds, along with Panda bonds in China and sustainability-linked bonds, will become increasingly important.

They help nations manage debt while also seeking funds for sustainable development. As of the most recent analysis, 43% of Kenya’s external debt is multilateral, 31% bilateral and 27% commercial, which are mainly Eurobonds. Samurai bonds provide a way to rebalance this mix and reduce exposure to high-cost commercial borrowing.

Direct Benefits for Kenya

The immediate benefits of Kenya’s Samurai bond financing are of great importance for financing the future of Kenya. First, the funding will support job creation in the country’s growing vehicle assembly plants, part of its broader plan to become a regional manufacturing hub. Second, by modernizing energy infrastructure, the financing will help reduce electricity transmission losses, improving grid reliability for both households and businesses.

This will cut costs, boost productivity and increase competitiveness for local industries. Additionally, tapping into new markets signals investor confidence in Kenya’s long-term prospects. This may encourage future international investment, making it easier for Kenya to access capital at favorable rates.

By diversifying its funding sources, Kenya can avoid over-reliance on a single market or currency, reducing vulnerability to global economic shocks. The Debt Sustainability Analysis has noted that Kenya is vulnerable to external “market financing shocks” as Eurobond markets tighten. This risk has grown, especially following the Russia-Ukraine conflict and global monetary tightening.

A Solution-Focused Shift

Beyond its immediate economic benefits, the Samurai bond deal highlights a solution-oriented approach to Kenya’s development challenges. Traditional loans have often come with high interest rates, rigid repayment terms or political conditions. By pursuing Samurai bonds, Kenya is demonstrating how developing countries can use innovative financial tools to secure resources that are both affordable and aligned with their development needs.

This move also shows the immediate effect of global partnerships in supporting Kenya’s growth. For Kenya, the deal is not only about managing debt, it is about investing strategically in sectors that will generate long-term returns. By strengthening vehicle assembly and energy, the government is targeting industries with strong multiplier effects.

New jobs, better infrastructure and increased investor confidence all feed into broader economic growth to finance the future of the country. Other developing nations may see this as a model worth replicating, signaling a shift toward creative financing solutions that link global capital to local development goals.

Looking Ahead

The full impact of the Samurai bond deal will take time to measure. However, it already represents an important milestone in Kenya’s financial strategy. By turning to innovative financing mechanisms, the country is showing how global partnerships can unlock resources that directly improve people’s lives.

For citizens, the results of global partnerships could include more reliable electricity, new employment opportunities in manufacturing and greater stability in the economy. For the international community, the deal highlights the importance of offering developing nations access to affordable financing tools that allow them to chart their own paths toward sustainable growth.

Kenya’s foray into Samurai bonds is more than just a loan. It is a reminder that creative financial solutions can drive development, reduce poverty and build resilience in a rapidly changing world.

– Nilay Ersoy

Nilay is based in Cambridge, MA, USA and focuses on Business and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pxhere