Kisii Youth Townhall – July 2025
Gathering with young people in Kisii Town to listen, learn and co‑create solutions.
Context
Date: 21 July 2025
Venue: Kisii Town Hall, Kisii Central
The Kisii Youth Townhall brought together secondary school students, university graduates, boda‑boda riders and young entrepreneurs. It was organised in partnership with local youth associations and churches. The dialogue took place at the town hall next to the Gusii Stadium, providing a safe space for open conversation.
Key Themes Raised
- Youth Employment & Skills: Many participants asked about apprenticeships and digital skills training to prepare them for opportunities in manufacturing and logistics.
- Mental Health & Sports: The need for safe spaces, counselling services and youth sports programmes to address stress and inspire teamwork was a recurring theme.
- Entrepreneurship & Funding: Young innovators sought mentorship and access to micro‑finance to turn creative ideas into sustainable businesses.
What I Learned
The energy and ambition of Kisii’s youth are incredible. What they need is not just jobs but supportive ecosystems that include training, mentorship and mental health support. I was reminded that sports and creative activities are just as important as classroom learning for building confidence and teamwork. The townhall reinforced my belief that regional development must invest in young people holistically.
How We’re Following Up
We are partnering with universities and vocational centres to set up digital skills labs and apprenticeships linked to our manufacturing and logistics businesses. In collaboration with churches and youth groups, we will host mental health clinics and sports tournaments to provide safe outlets for young people. Our Youth Enterprise Lab will integrate a mentorship programme connecting experienced entrepreneurs with youth who have innovative ideas.