We placed a particular focus upon the nexus between the private sector, education institutions, and Mombasa’s youth, recognising that young people fall into groups defined by levels of education and income. We found that basic education is not accessible enough and of insufficient quality, and that there is a gap between the skills young people offer and those businesses require. Access to finance is limited, job and market information is scarce, and the cost of doing business is high. Cultural attitudes and feelings of both marginalisation and victimisation also play a part.

However, we also identified a range of sectors of Mombasa’s economy that have the potential to expand and create jobs. They include agriculture and agri-processing, construction, tourism, micro trade and retail, fisheries, export processing zones and waste management and recycling.

In support of the priorities of the national and county government, we recommended that DFID firstly improve the human capital of young people from low-skilled and low-income backgrounds with an integrated training and apprenticeship programme, including adult learning, vocational, entrepreneurship and life skills, and work experience.

Secondly, we recommended that DFID’s programme of activities should promote skills and market development in growing sectors via the creation of public-private partnerships in vocational training, value chain development, and the launch of job search centres.

Thirdly, we suggested that DFID encourage the government, academic and private sector to have an impact on youth employment via best practice strategies, policies and incentives.

These measures will help Mombasa’s youth find employment, directly benefiting individuals, but also stimulating Mombasa’s economy for the future.