Since the beginning of January, the industrial town of Athi River in Machakos County has witnessed an overwhelming number of youth seeking job opportunities in the area’s thriving private sector. From university graduates to form four leavers, and even those without formal education, hundreds of job seekers have been arriving as early as 6:00 a.m. daily, hoping to secure a position in the factories along the Nairobi-Mombasa highway, Nairobi-Namanga road, and the Export Processing Zone (EPZ).
The surge in job seekers has been attributed to the ongoing rural-urban migration, with many individuals relocating from rural areas in search of better employment prospects in the industrial town. For many, Athi River remains a beacon of hope, offering a perceived abundance of job opportunities in the various factories that line its roads.
Despite the influx of job seekers, the competition for employment is fierce. Employers in the area are known to hire based on merit, skills, and experience, with positions available for both skilled and unskilled workers. This has led to a diverse pool of applicants, ranging from those with professional qualifications to those seeking entry-level positions. However, the high demand for jobs has highlighted the ongoing issue of unemployment, especially among the youth.
Athi River MCA, Jeremiah Kaloi, expressed concern over the high levels of unemployment in the region, particularly among the youth. He noted that many young people from rural areas are migrating to the town in search of work, creating a competitive job market where locals are often at a disadvantage. Kaloi pointed out that while companies are hiring from various counties, such as Nakuru, Kiambu, Meru, and Busia, a significant percentage of Athi River’s youth remain unemployed.
In response, Kaloi has called for more equitable hiring practices that prioritize merit, skills, and experience. He urged employers to consider the qualifications of local applicants and ensure that job opportunities are not biased against them. Additionally, he encouraged young people to take a proactive approach to job hunting rather than simply waiting for opportunities to come to them.
To support the youth, Kaloi recently launched the “Vijana Kujituma Kusaka Kazi” initiative, which aims to connect young people with job opportunities and career guidance. The initiative has already seen success, with a company at the EPZ promising to hire 100 youths from Athi River and plans to employ an additional 600 workers at their textile factory.
Kaloi also advised form four leavers to pursue further education and skills development through Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions. This, he believes, will provide them with the practical skills needed to succeed in the competitive job market.
The situation in Athi River serves as a reminder of the need for both government and private sector involvement in creating more sustainable and inclusive job opportunities, particularly for the youth.
