TRAINING INTERVENTIONS AND YOUTH SOCIO-ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT: EVIDENCE FROM THE KENYA YOUTH EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES PROJECT (KYEOP) IN MAKADARA SUB-COUNTY, NAIROBI COUNTY, KENYA
Abstract
Statement of the Problem: Youth unemployment remains one of the most persistent socio-economic challenges facing developing economies, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, where expanding youth populations continue to exceed the capacity of labour markets to generate productive employment opportunities. In response, governments and development partners have increasingly invested in skills-development programmes aimed at improving youth employability, productivity, and economic participation.
Purpose of the Study: This study examined the influence of KYEOP training interventions on the socio-economic empowerment of youth in Makadara Sub-County, Nairobi County, Kenya. Research Methodology: A mixed-methods research design was adopted, combining quantitative data collected through structured questionnaires with qualitative data obtained from key informant interviews. The study targeted KYEOP beneficiaries and programme implementation officers, with a calculated sample size of 184 respondents from a target population of 341 participants. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically.
Findings: The findings indicate that KYEOP training interventions positively influenced youth socio-economic empowerment by improving technical competencies, workplace preparedness, confidence, and participation in economic activities. Beneficiaries demonstrated substantial exposure to life skills training, technical skills development, and apprenticeship opportunities, with acquired skills applied in employment and income-generating activities.
Conclusion: The study concludes that KYEOP training interventions provide an important pathway for enhancing youth socio-economic empowerment by strengthening human capital and improving labour-market readiness.
Recommendation: The study contributes to youth employment policy discussions by demonstrating that successful training interventions must be integrated within broader labour-market systems that support the transition from skills development to productive economic participation.
Keywords: Training Interventions, Youth, Socio-Economic, Empowerment, Youth Employment, Opportunities Project
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