Hon. Yusuf Hassan — Kamukunji MP

California Ward has become a symbol of how digital skills can unlock opportunity for young people in dense urban communities.Once characterised by high unemployment and limited access to formal work, the ward is now emerging as a centre for youth-driven innovation, freelancing, and digital enterprise.

Shauri Moyo United celebrate victory over Wenyeji Football Club in the 2024 Kamukunji Peace Cup final at the historic Kamukunji Grounds. The closely contested match, watched by thousands of supporters, ended in a 1–0 win and highlighted the role of organised sport in promoting youth engagement, community pride, and social cohesion. The final was witnessed by Edwin Sifuna, underscoring the significance of sport as a unifying force in Kamukunji.

Ajira Digital Centres & Skills Training

At the core of this transformation is the expansion of digital skills training under the Ajira programme.

Establishment of fully equipped Ajira Digital Centres within the ward
Training in freelancing, digital marketing, data entry, coding, and AI-enabled services
Structured mentorship connecting youth to global online work platforms

These centres have opened doors for young people who previously saw limited prospects within the formal economy.

From Skills to Income

Training alone is not enough. The emphasis in California Ward has been on converting skills into sustainable income.

Thousands of youth trained, with many securing consistent online contracts
New income streams reducing dependency and vulnerability
Digital work enabling youth to earn without leaving their community

For many households, digital income has become a stabilising force, supporting families and enabling continued education.

Social Mobility & Community Impact

The ripple effects of digital empowerment extend beyond individual beneficiaries.

Kamukunji's Ajira Digital Hub

Reduced involvement in crime and risky behaviour
Increased confidence and civic participation among youth
Emergence of peer mentors supporting the next generation of trainees

Young people are no longer viewed as a problem to be managed, but as partners in development.

Building a Digital Future

California Ward’s experience demonstrates that opportunity, when paired with skills, can change life trajectories.The success of digital youth programmes here is shaping a model that can be replicated across Kamukunji and other urban constituencies.