Empowering Youth Entrepreneurs :  The jenga Bizna Mtaani program

• Communications Team
• July 7, 2023
• JJF News, Press Release
• 0 Comments

Introduction:

 Youth unemployment is a pressing issue in Kenya, with a significant number of young individuals struggling to find sustainable livelihoods. The Jonathan Jackson Foundation (JJF) is taking a proactive approach to address this challenge through JJF’s “Jenga Bizna Mtaani” program. By supporting youth groups in building businesses within Nairobi’s informal communities, JJF aims to create opportunities, promote economic independence for Kenyan youths. However, to amplify our impact and reach more young individuals, we need the support of generous donors who share our vision.

The Youth Unemployment Challenge:

According to recent reports from the Federation of Kenya Employers (FKE) the number of unemployed Kenyan youth has been steadily rising. This alarming trend not only hampers personal growth but also poses socio-economic challenges for Kenya. Addressing this issue is crucial for achieving sustainable development goals and fostering inclusive economic growth.

How JJF is Making a Difference:

The Jenga Bizna Mtaani program is a testament to JJF’s commitment to transforming the lives of young individuals in Nairobi’s informal communities. Through this initiative, JJF provides comprehensive training and donate capital goods to youth groups, enabling them to establish and successfully manage their own businesses. By empowering these young entrepreneurs, we create a ripple effect that positively impacts entire communities.

Since its inception, JJF has created over 200 jobs in Nairobi’s informal communities, reaching more than 3,000 youths. However, these figures represent only 23% of the groups within our youth database. There is an urgent need to expand our reach and make a tangible difference in the lives of even more young individuals.

The Role of Donors in Making a Difference:

While the accomplishments of JJF are commendable, the scale of youth unemployment in Nairobi’s informal settlements demands collective action. The Jonathan Jackson Foundation urgently calls upon donors to join hands and support our mission. By partnering with JJF, donors can contribute to empowering more youth, expanding the program’s reach, and catalyzing the transformation of entire communities.

Moving Youth from Unemployment to Entrepreneurship:

Why focus on helping youth build businesses instead of just providing job opportunities? The answer lies in the long-term benefits and sustainability. By empowering youth to become entrepreneurs, we enable them to create their own employment opportunities and contribute to the local economy. This shift from unemployment to entrepreneurship fosters self-reliance, financial independence, and the potential for exponential growth, benefiting not only the individuals but also the wider community.

Conclusion:

The Jonathan Jackson Foundation is on a mission to empower youth entrepreneurs and tackle the critical issue of youth unemployment in Nairobi’s informal communities. Through the Jenga Bizna Mtaani program, we have already made a significant impact, but there is still much more to be done. By joining hands with JJF as a donor, you become an essential part of this transformative journey, helping us reach more youth groups, create sustainable jobs, and empower young individuals to shape their own futures.

References: [1] Federation of Kenya Employers (FKE) – Youth Employment. Retrieved from: https://www.fke-kenya.org/policy-issues/youth-employment