Kakuma, May 30, 2024
The county government and the National Employment Authority (NEA) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at improving access to employment information for host and refugee populations in Kakuma.
Under the MoU, the NEA will provide a range of services at the Kakuma Biashara Huduma Centre, facilitating connections between job seekers from both communities and opportunities available through the PROSPECTS program managed by the International Labour Organisation (ILO).
“This pact is a significant step towards addressing the high unemployment rates among the youth of Turkana and the refugee population,” said County Executive for Trade, Gender, and Youth Affairs, David Erukudi, when signing the MoU on behalf of the county.
According to UNHCR report titled Understanding Socio-Economic Conditions of Refugees in Kakuma Camp published in 2022, only 20% of the eligible working-age population in Kakuma is employed, resulting in an unemployment rate of 80%. The host community faces a similarly high unemployment rate of 71%.
The executive said that the pact establishes a framework for regular access to labor market information generated by various Career Guidance Institutes in collaboration with the ILO.
Country Director for ILO Kenya, Carolyne Njuki, emphasized the ILO’s commitment to enhancing access to decent work and sustainable livelihoods. “We are proud to support an initiative that not only provides employment opportunities but also fosters social cohesion,” she said.
The Acting Director General of NEA, Brian Oneko, highlighted the strategic importance of the MoU. “This agreement is crucial in bridging the gap between job seekers and available employment opportunities,” he noted.
Chief Officer for Trade and Enterprise Development, Robert Loyelei, remarked on the anticipated positive changes in the employment landscape due to the high quality of the partnership.
The signing ceremony was witnessed by several dignitaries, including Mia Seppo, (ILO Assistant Director for Jobs and Social Protection), Shemmy Ekuwom, (County Director of Cooperatives) Michael Musyoki, (Manager of the Kakuma Biashara Huduma Centre) and representatives from the County Attorney’s office.
The MoU will also leverage existing infrastructure provided by the World Bank’s International Finance Corporation (IFC), UNHCR, UNICEF, and other humanitarian sector players to ensure success.
