In a timely move to economically empower marginalized, young female survivors of gender-based violence (GBV), the Centre for Rights Education and Awareness (CREAW), the KPC Foundation, and the Morendat Institute of Oil and Gas National Polytechnic (MIOG) have signed a four-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to offer fully sponsored technical and vocational training to young women in Nairobi and Mombasa counties.
The MoU outlines a shared commitment to provide technical skills training while also enhancing work-readiness through comprehensive coaching and mentorship, enabling their full participation in the economy and contributing to their long-term dignity and independence. The partnership also seeks to support the young women by securing internship placements for practical industry exposure and facilitating job linkages by tapping into existing industry networks. In addition, select beneficiaries will receive grants for entrepreneurship
Speaking during the MoU signing ceremony, KPC MD Mr. Joe Sang noted that gender-based violence continues to rob young women of opportunities in economic participation. Without access to education and skills, many survivors face unemployment, economic exclusion, and generational cycles of poverty.
“At KPC, we remain alive to these challenges and we remain steadfast in our endeavor to make a difference. In a bid to restore hope and confidence among survivors of GBV, KPC will fully sponsor globally accredited, hands-on training for the young women at our Morendat Institute of Oil and Gas (MIOG) polytechnic. The courses that will be offered under this MoU include: International Welders Certificate, Fiber Optic Installation Technician, Certificate in Motor Vehicle Diagnostics, Certificate in Electrical Installation, Forklift Operator Certification Course and International Fire Fighters Certification Course among others” he said.
The partnership is particularly significant for young women who are survivors of GBV, many of whom face economic exclusion, unemployment, and limited access to education. Studies show that GBV has profound consequences on women’s ability to participate in economic life often leading to lost productivity, job loss, and intergenerational poverty. By equipping survivors with technical skills and pathways to decent work, this initiative directly challenges the cycle of violence and economic vulnerability.
CREAW Executive Director Wangechi Wachira noted that this partnership will open up real opportunities for young women who are survivors of gender based violence to gain practical skills at the facility, find spaces to work, and build strong networks that can support their growth.
“This isn’t just about skilling. It’s about restoring dignity, hope, and the belief that every young woman deserves a chance to live a meaningful and empowered life,” Wangechi said.
CREAW, through its Jasiri Program, will identify and support young women aged 18–35 who have either survived or are at risk of GBV. The KPC Foundation will leverage Kenya Pipeline Company’s national infrastructure and industry networks to support internship and employment opportunities. MIOG will provide globally accredited, hands-on training in high-demand fields including welding and fabrication, fibre optic installation, electrical installation, motor vehicle diagnostics, CNC machining, refrigeration and air conditioning, and fire safety.
Participants in Nairobi and Mombasa are encouraged to apply by clicking on this link. https://ee.kobotoolbox.org/x/jTbjPF8g
“During lockdown and restriction of movement in the country, my world came crumbling down. My husband left. I had to start doing menial jobs to support my children and I. The jobs were also not easy to come by,” Narrates Wangechi, as she recounts the challenges she went through to ensure she provides basic needs for her children.
“Access to information and business skills remain a major challenge to women survivors of GBV. Providing training on financial literacy and life-skills is crucial for efficient use of financial services and products. With the right training, they are able to revive their businesses, acquire productive assets and save for their future plans,” Confirms Moses Okello, the Women Economic Empowerment Lead at CREAW, who has been supporting women under the program rebuild their life post-COVID-19.
Mary Bandi from Kayole in Nairobi was one such woman. She had lost her hotel job and was now doing laundry work that could barely meet the needs of her family. On the side, she had an outstanding mortgage loan that needed to be cleared.
By the time we were leaving her home, Mary had already gotten second approval for a loan of KES 65,000. She wants to use it in expanding her handbags business as well as find another branch for the same.
