A group of 15 youth in Turkana North have showcased their skills in Boat Making and Repair after completing a technician course under the Ujuzi Mashinani program, implemented by the County Government and USAID NAWIRI.
The event, facilitated by the County Government, USAID NAWIRI, and the Kenya Maritime Authority, was presided over by the Chief Officer for Sports and Vocational Training, Leah Losiru.
Speaking at the ceremony, CCO Losiru clarified that the youth had been trained, examined, and assessed by Kataboi Vocational Training Centre, with Todonyang serving as a satellite location.
The youths demonstrated the skills they acquired during their training period to qualify for the award of technician certificates in Boat Making and Repair. They were also issued with materials for repair works.
“The vocational skills acquired will enable these youths to make a significant contribution to the local multi-million fishing industry,” noted CCO Losiru.
She encouraged more youths to embrace upskilling opportunities in the future.
Losiru added that the event was a testament of the commitment to Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai’s agenda on revitalizing education and strategic partnerships.
Director for Vocational Training, Stephen Eregae, noted that both Kataboi and Kaaleng Kaikor vocational centres were implementing the Ujuzi Mashinani program.
“The two vocational institutions implements the Ujuzi Mashinani program through a network of satellite centres across Turkana North,” Director Eregae said.
Ujuzi Mashinani Program Coordinator, Samuel Kabilit, remarked that the on-site training linked to existing Vocational Training Institutions has successfully equipped the area’s youth with various vocational skills.
Kabilit emphasized that the entry of these youths into the boat making industry would significantly aid in combating malnutrition, as the graduates would earn income to purchase nutritious food for their families.
The implementing partners were present to assess how effectively their support of tools had been utilized.
It is expected that the youth will soon be graduating alongside others who pursued and qualified for certification in Food and Beverage, garment making, bakery and pastry, motor vehicle mechanics and ICT.
This comes at a time when the entire Turkana North area has been relying on imported expertise to facilitate routine works that require skilled input.
