At Bridgelab Africa, we are always paying attention to trends that affect the future of work. A recent review of unemployment data from the World Bank paints a worrying picture, one that speaks directly to the challenges young people in Kenya are facing today.

What the Numbers Are Telling Us

For a number of years, Kenya’s unemployment rate stayed relatively steady. But something changed between 2016 and 2020. During this period, the rate rose sharply, climbing above 5.5% of the total labour force.

At first glance, this figure may not seem extreme. However, when you look closer, especially at youth unemployment, which has been reported as high as 67 percent, the urgency becomes clear. Many young people are leaving school or university only to face long periods of unemployment or underemployment. This is more than just a statistic; it is a daily struggle for millions.

Why Is This Happening?

There is no single cause, but several factors are playing a role.

First, there is a clear skills mismatch. Many young people have qualifications, but not the practical skills that employers are looking for. At the same time, industries are changing rapidly and education systems have not kept pace.

Second, economic shifts have made things more difficult. Some sectors that once provided jobs are no longer hiring at the same rates. The cost of living has gone up, but the job market has not kept up with demand.

Third, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the economy in a big way. Businesses closed, hiring slowed down, and many people lost the chance to gain work experience or advance in their careers.

A Generation at Risk

What these trends show is that young people in Kenya are being left behind, not because they lack potential, but because the systems around them are not working as they should.

Without targeted support, many will continue to face barriers to employment. And without meaningful opportunities, frustration and disillusionment grow. This is not just a problem for individuals, it is a challenge for the entire economy.

How BridgeLab Africa Is Responding

At Bridgelab Africa, we believe that mentorship is one of the most powerful tools for preparing young people for the world of work.

Our mentorship programs are designed to connect emerging professionals with mentors who have real-world experience. These mentors guide, challenge, and support young people as they grow in their careers. It is not just about finding a job. It is about helping individuals discover their strengths, build confidence, and learn how to navigate a complex and changing job market.

Here’s how we do it:

1. Practical Skills Training

We focus on equipping mentees with skills that are in demand, whether in digital technology, entrepreneurship, communication, or project management.

2. Career Guidance

Our mentors offer personalised support to help young people make informed career choices, avoid common mistakes, and plan for the future.

3. Soft Skills Development

We help build essential qualities like confidence, public speaking, teamwork, and adaptability. These skills are often overlooked but are critical in any workplace.

4. Industry Exposure

Mentors provide insight into what different industries look like in practice, what employers expect, and how to stand out.

5. Business Mentorship

For those who want to create their own path, we support aspiring entrepreneurs in turning their ideas into viable businesses.

Investing in the Future

Our goal is not just to make individuals more employable. It is to develop a new generation of professionals who are ready to contribute meaningfully to Kenya’s economy and society. We are building confidence, capacity, and a sense of purpose, one mentee at a time.

Mentorship is not a one-time conversation. It is a journey of growth, transformation, and connection. And right now, it is more necessary than ever.

Data source: World Bank Data on Kenya Unemployment

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Why Kenya’s Rising Unemployment Demands a Mentorship Revolution

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