Overview
Young people are the future of every community, and yet in the semi-arid lands of Machakos County, far too many youth find themselves without the opportunities, skills or support systems they need to thrive. Limited access to vocational training, high rates of unemployment, exposure to drugs and alcohol and a lack of constructive recreational outlets leave many young men and women vulnerable to negative behavior patterns that harm both their own prospects and the communities around them. NACODEV firmly believes that investing in youth is investing in the long-term future of the entire region. The Youth Empowerment program is designed to meet young people where they are, offering practical vocational training, sports and recreation, behavioral change support and community leadership opportunities that equip them to become confident, productive and resilient adults. By addressing both the skills gap and the social pressures that young people face, NACODEV works to unlock the enormous potential that exists within the youth of Machakos County.
What We Do
NACODEV's Youth Empowerment program brings together a range of activities designed to address the multiple dimensions of youth vulnerability. Vocational skills training programs provide young people with practical, marketable skills that open doors to self-employment and income generation, reducing their dependence on scarce formal employment opportunities. Sports and recreation equipment is provided to youth groups across Yatta, Mwala, Masinga and Kathiani sub-counties, offering healthy, constructive outlets for young people's energy and talent while fostering teamwork, discipline and a sense of belonging. Behavioral change workshops and counselling sessions address the root causes of risky behavior, helping young people understand the consequences of drug and substance abuse and empowering them to make positive choices. Community leadership and mentorship programs connect young people with positive role models and give them real responsibilities within their communities, building confidence and a sense of purpose. NACODEV is also working toward the establishment of a dedicated youth resource and vocational training centre in Ngangani, which will serve as a permanent hub for youth development activities in the area.
Objectives
- Influence positive behavioral change in 2,100+ youth across Yatta, Masinga, Kathiani and Mwala sub-counties through workshops, counselling and community engagement.
- Empower 700+ youth through vocational skills training to become self-reliant, economically active and contributing members of their communities.
- Provide diverse, quality sports and recreational facilities to 700+ youth across four sub-counties to promote healthy lifestyles and teamwork.
- Establish a youth resource and vocational training centre in Ngangani as a permanent base for youth empowerment activities.
- Minimise drug, alcohol and substance abuse among young adults through sustained awareness, counselling and alternative livelihood support.
Impact So Far
Hundreds of young people across Machakos County have participated in NACODEV's vocational training workshops, sports activities and behavioral change programs since the program's inception. Substance abuse sensitisation sessions have been conducted in multiple primary and junior secondary schools, reaching young people at a critical age with life-changing information. Sports equipment distributed to youth groups has created new opportunities for recreation, competition and community connection across the four target sub-counties. Community leadership initiatives have given young people a platform to contribute meaningfully to their communities, building confidence and social responsibility. NACODEV's ongoing efforts to establish a dedicated youth resource centre in Ngangani represent a long-term commitment to sustaining and expanding youth empowerment opportunities for years to come.