The National Government in collaboration with Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) has commenced training of small and medium business proprietors and youths on online business in Nyanza region.
Through a programme dubbed ‘Ajira Digital’ undertaken by the Ministry of ICT, the Government is seeking to train the business community as well as the youths on online business to promote the digital sector.
Speaking, during the event that brought together more than 100 traders and youth representatives, KEPSA Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Martha Cheruto, explained that the Organization has partnered with the National Government to fight the high rate of unemployment in the Country.
“There are many businesses and job opportunities which the youth and traders can do online for income. We are training them through the ‘Ajira digital’ program so that they can access the opportunities that are available online,” she said.
The CEO further noted that the training in Homa Bay was part of a series of trainings meant for counties with the next one scheduled this week in Kisumu County.
Ajira Digital Programmes Director, Ehud Gachungu, said that digital jobs will contribute up to 1.4 trillion to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2024.
He noted that the program has connected a number of business owners to e-commerce platforms and increased awareness of various digital platforms to make money such as AirDuka, Range, SkyGarden among others.
On his part, Homa Bay County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Trade, Dr David Okeyo, pointed out that the adverse effects of Covid-19 pandemic had pushed a number of Kenyans to learn how to conduct businesses through online platforms.
“Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Kenyans shifted to conducting transactions online, and we are training business owners to adapt to the same and tap into the larger online audience, as a way of either marketing or operating their businesses,” said Okeyo.
By Omar Zabbibah and Sitna Omar
