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In an effort to foster sustainable economic growth and tackle pressing environmental challenges, Kenya convened a National Green Jobs and Skills Development Workshop at the Kenyatta International Conventional Center (KICC) today. Led by Labour and Skills Development Principal Secretary, Shadrack Mwadime, the event brought together a diverse array of leaders and stakeholders to devise a roadmap for advancing the green jobs and skills agenda.
Central to the discussions was the imperative shift from a linear economic model to a circular one, as emphasized by PS Mwadime during his address, delivered on behalf of Cabinet Secretary Hon. Florence Bore. Advocating for the principles of reduce, reuse, and recycle, Mwadime underscored the need to optimize resource consumption and minimize ecological impacts, aligning with existing legislation and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
The workshop served as a platform for stakeholders to showcase their commitment to the green agenda, with PS Mwadime urging participants to leverage their diverse experiences to offer innovative solutions in confronting the global challenge of climate change. Recognizing the transformative potential of green economies, Mwadime highlighted the emergence of new job opportunities in low-carbon sectors driven by regulatory reforms and emission targets.
In line with the evolving landscape of green industries, PS Mwadime stressed the importance of equipping the workforce with adaptable skills to meet these changing demands. Encouraging youth empowerment, he urged them to harness evolving technologies to pioneer entrepreneurial ventures, citing the burgeoning demand for electric batteries as a prime example.
However, the realization of the green jobs and skills agenda requires substantial resources. PS Mwadime emphasized the importance of support from development partners, underscoring that the costs of inaction far outweigh the costs of action. The Ministry remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting decent work, skills development, and sustainable job creation, evidenced by initiatives such as the establishment of National Sector Skills Committees to bridge the gap between industry needs and skill development.
The workshop concluded with a sense of optimism and renewed determination to chart a path towards a greener, more resilient economy. As Kenya navigates the complexities of sustainable development, the commitment demonstrated by leaders and stakeholders alike signals a promising future for green jobs and skills development in the country