Discussion Paper No. 213 of 2018 on Examining Youth Employment Preference in Kenya

Abstract

In Kenya, youth (age 18-34 years) has been facing employment challenges yet they are in their crucial stage of transitioning from dependence to self-reliance. They are also the majority in the country and are expected to drive social, economic and political developments. To address employment challenges, the government, nongovernment institutions and private sector has come up with interventions aimed at offering financial support, offering entrepreneurial skills and offering jobs to the youth. Despite the efforts, little is known on what matters for the youth in terms of their employment preference and determinants of employment preferences. The objective of this study is to inform decision makers on youth employment preference that can help in recruiting, retention and motivation of youth in the labour market.