Empowering youth entrepreneurs in Kisii county through SIYB

KISII (ILO News) - From 22nd to 26th September 2025, Kisii County hosted a transformative Start and Improve Your Business (SIYB) training event as part of the ACCEL Africa project, financed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands. In collaboration with the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the County Government of Kisii, the program aimed to provide young people, especially those from tea and coffee-growing families, with essential entrepreneurial skills to help them create pathways to decent work and sustainable livelihoods.

Youth unemployment remains a major challenge in Kenya, particularly among individuals aged 15–29 years. Many of these young people are at risk of, or have previously been involved in, child labour, which further hinders their transition into decent and stable employment. Accounting for 86.5 per cent of workers, informal employment is extensive in Kenya but not markedly so compared to other countries in the region. It is more prevalent amongst young people (at 88.3 per cent) than those aged 30 and over (at 85.7 per cent), and is also much higher amongst women of all ages compared to men, accounting for 90.1 per cent of young female workers and 90.2 per cent of female workers aged 30 and above. This underscores the urgent need for sustainable and inclusive employment strategies to enhance young people’s economic opportunities and resilience.

The SIYB training took place across seven Vocational Training Centres (VTCs) in Kisii County, specifically targeting young people from families involved in the tea and coffee value chains. The training was designed to equip participants with practical skills in business planning, financial management, marketing, and operations. Its focus was not only on helping youth start their own businesses but also on strengthening and expanding existing ventures. This initiative played a vital role in enhancing income-generation opportunities and contributing to the local economic development of Kisii County.

The County Government of Kisii, a key partner in the program, expressed its commitment to working with the ILO to integrate SIYB as a core component of the VTC curriculum. This long-term collaboration ensures that youth in Kisii will continue to receive entrepreneurial training and support, positioning them for future success.

"Learning about financial management and marketing has completely changed how I view business. I now feel confident enough to pitch my business idea to the ongoing NYOTA program in Kenya," said Benson, 19, a trainee from Kenyenya VTC.

The SIYB Training of Trainers (TOT) model, established within the VTCs, ensures that 20 SIYB TOTs, who now serve as instructors in these institutions, will continue to provide ongoing guidance and mentorship to the trained Potential Entrepreneurs (POEs). These youth, equipped with essential entrepreneurial skills, are supported as they explore business opportunities and apply for funding through various government programs targeting young entrepreneurs, such as the Youth Enterprise Development Fund (YEDF), Uwezo Fund, and National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA).Through this network of experienced mentors and business development services, the trained youth are empowered to grow their businesses sustainably and confidently.

"I used to think my future was limited to just working on the farm like my family. After this training, I see a world of possibilities. I’m confident that I can start a business and make a real difference in my community," said Esther, 17, a trainee from St Kizito VTC.

This initiative directly addressed the pressing issues of youth unemployment and child labour in Kenya. By equipping young people with essential entrepreneurial skills, it opened doors to greater economic opportunities while aligning with broader national and regional goals, such as the African Union Youth Employment Strategy. Kisii County, committed to embedding SIYB within VTCs, is leading the way in showing how youth entrepreneurship can drive innovation, foster economic growth, and empower local communities. With continued mentorship and support, this training paves the way for a brighter, more sustainable future for Kisii's youth and sets an inspiring example for others to follow.

© ILO/Duncan

© ILO/Duncan