Festive season is a good time to tackle youth joblessness

It’s December again, and many people are looking forward to merrymaking as they spend time with friends and relatives during the festive period. But the festive season, with its promise of joy and renewal, could hold the key to addressing Kenya's persistent youth unemployment challenge.

Recent statistics show that unemployment among the youth aged 20-24 remains alarmingly high, with over 18 per cent experiencing labour under-utilisation in late 2024, according to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS). This translates to a significant number of capable young individuals unable to find stable, meaningful work. However, the festive period offers a unique opportunity to turn this around.

December is a time of heightened economic activity. Events, celebrations, and an uptick in retail demand create temporary jobs. For example, holiday markets in urban centres like Nairobi and Mombasa often require extra hands for set-up, sales, and logistics. Youth organisations and SMEs (small and medium enterprises) can tap into this demand, collaborating with county governments to set up training programmes aimed at equipping young people with the skills needed to fill these roles effectively.

Consider the story of a 24-year-old graduate who turned a one-month job at a Christmas pop-up store into a career in retail management. This seasonal opportunity not only provided income but also served as a springboard for his ambitions. Similar stories can emerge if we structure seasonal jobs with long-term employability in mind.

The festive season also fuels demand for services in tourism, transportation, and hospitality industries, sectors that typically experience a surge in December. Employers in these sectors could work with local youth groups to recruit temporary staff while offering on-the-job training that enhances their employability beyond the season.

The holiday season is also ripe for entrepreneurial ventures. In December 2023, a group of young innovators from Kisumu launched a mobile car-wash service tailored for festive travellers. They ended up generating Sh500,000 in a single month. Such initiatives showcase how creativity and determination, coupled with targeted financial support, can transform seasonal demands into sustainable businesses.

Banks and microfinance institutions could step up during this season by offering low-interest loans or grants to youth-led enterprises. For instance, a “Festive Season Start-Up Fund” targeting small businesses in food, fashion, and tech industries could significantly enhance youth participation in the economy. Moreover, government initiatives like the Hustler Fund could roll out special festive packages aimed at incentivising young entrepreneurs to seize opportunities unique to the holiday period.

The festive season's communal nature is perfect for building professional networks. Youth-focused organisations can host workshops and networking events to connect young people with mentors and potential employers. Imagine if every end-of-year party included a career clinic where seasoned professionals offered guidance on navigating the job market.

Additionally, alumni associations, religious organisations, and community groups can play a vital role in organising networking sessions. These gatherings could blend social interactions with career-building opportunities.

Sheila is the Executive Director of US-based YouthRoots