The Mombasa County Government has taken another major step towards addressing youth unemployment with the commencement of the registration of colleges and vocational institutions that will implement the Skills Mtaani Programme.
The initiative, which forms part of Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir’s youth empowerment agenda, will combine technical training, financial support through a revolving fund and digital monitoring systems to ensure transparency and accountability.
Speaking during the registration exercise, Governor Nassir said unemployment continues to be one of the county’s most pressing challenges and requires practical interventions that create opportunities for young people.
“We are bringing together institutions because we want to work collectively to solve unemployment. This programme is about creating opportunities and giving our youth the skills they need to build sustainable livelihoods.”
The Governor said the programme has been designed with strict accountability measures to ensure fairness in the selection of institutions and beneficiaries.
He announced that only registered and approved colleges will participate, after which the Department of ICT will roll out a digital application platform where young people can independently choose their preferred institutions.
“There will be no discrimination in this programme. Every eligible young person will have an equal opportunity to apply and select the institution they wish to attend.”
Governor Nassir also said digital attendance tracking will be introduced to monitor participation and protect public resources.
“This investment must produce results. Attendance monitoring will help us ensure that those benefiting from county support are actively participating in the training and are ready for the next level of assistance.”
Upon successful completion of training, beneficiaries will be considered for support through the county’s revolving fund to acquire tools and equipment required to start businesses or pursue employment.
The Governor said some graduates are also expected to secure overseas employment opportunities through the skills acquired.
Airport Ward MCA and Education Committee Chairperson Ibrahim Omondi described the programme as a bold investment in the future of Mombasa’s youth.
“Knowledge and skills are the currency of today’s economy. By partnering with accredited institutions, the county government is creating a pathway for young people to become self-reliant and competitive in the job market.”
He added that the County Assembly fully supports the initiative and called on young people to take advantage of the opportunities once applications are opened.
The Skills Mtaani Programme is expected to benefit thousands of young people across Mombasa through a transparent, technology-driven system that prioritizes fairness, accountability and quality training while strengthening the county’s long-term strategy for reducing unemployment.
