In Wajir County, where prolonged drought has devastated pastoral livelihoods, young people are forging new futures beyond livestock.
Vocational training centres in Griftu and Habaswein, supported by Islamic Relief Kenya through the Building Resilience and Adaptation to Climate Change project, funded by Islamic Relief USA, have been transformed into hubs of practical skills. Workshops that once stood empty now have sewing machines, electrical kits, computers and carpentry materials, plus qualified instructors and solar-powered facilities. Courses cover ICT, tailoring, hairdressing and electrical installation.
To make sure no one is left behind, 200 youth, 125 women and 75 men, received full sponsorships.
Farhiya, an ICT trainee, says: Before joining, I had never used a computer. Now I can create documents and presentations. My dream is to study ICT further and start my own business.
A tailoring trainee adds: I almost gave up because my family couldn’t afford the fees. Today, I am learning to design and sew. I want to open my own workshop and train other young women.
Story from the Islamic Relief Kenya Annual Report 2025.
