Governments have long partnered with the youth in finding ways to drive sustainable progress and development. They have often leveraged their fresh ideas and creative solutions to existing social issues.
The government of Kenya recognizes the need for youth empowerment in the attainment of development goals of a nation. In 2007, the Youth Enterprise Development Fund was launched by the Kenyan government, with aim of addressing the challenges faced by youth owned enterprises.
Lack of capital is a factor cited by young people as the main challenge in starting businesses. In my judgement however, access to finances is not always the biggest problem. Lack of entrepreneurial capacity to run a sustainable enterprise is one problem that needs to be addressed as a priority, since this is a salient determinant of business performance.
The success of an enterprise depends much upon the owner himself. If you manage to get your business funded while lacking sufficient level of relevant human capital, you jeopardize the opportunity accorded to you. It’s one thing to have an opportunity; it’s another thing to have the ability to execute. Be more concerned about your ability than your opportunity. Preparation begets opportunity.