Nairobi, Kenya– The National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) has launched a policy research project aimed at improving youth employment in Africa. 

The initiative, unveiled at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Nairobi, is being implemented in partnership with the African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP) and the Centre for African Policy Youth Employment Initiatives (CAPYEI).

The launch took place during the Youth Futures Policy Research Dialogue, which brought together policymakers, researchers, civil society, private sector leaders, youth organisations and development partners.

The project aims to generate evidence and identify solutions to expand job creation, improve access to training, and promote dignified work for young people. “Kenya’s Constitution requires the State to provide young people with opportunities for education, training and employment. This project will support those goals through research and partnerships,” NGEC said in a statement. Participants discussed barriers to employment, including skills gaps and structural inequalities affecting women, persons with disabilities and marginalised groups. The forum also provided youth representatives with an opportunity to share their experiences and recommendations.