The African Development Bank (AfDB) is supporting a new generation of environmentally conscious leaders in Kenya through its partnership with the Green Careers Caravan (GCC), an initiative of Jacob’s Ladder Africa (JLA).
The collaboration aims to raise awareness of green skills among university students and encourage them to pursue careers in sustainability. Green jobs in areas such as renewable energy, climate action, regenerative agriculture, and environmental management are increasingly central to Kenya’s transition to a low-carbon economy.
“By linking climate action with employability, the initiative opens new pathways for young people to secure meaningful work while driving Kenya’s transition to a green economy,” said JLA Co-Founder and CEO Stella Bogonko.
The Green Careers Caravan has been touring universities across Kenya, hosting “Green Career Days” that feature mentorship, training, case studies, and podcasts on green career opportunities. On 28 October, the Caravan visited the University of Embu, where hundreds of students engaged with experts from the green economy sector.
University of Embu Vice-Chancellor Professor Daniel Mugendi highlighted the importance of equipping graduates with the right skills and mindset to lead Kenya’s sustainable development. He expressed full support for JLA’s goal of activating 30 million jobs in Africa’s green economy by 2033.
For many students, the initiative is a turning point. Ian Calvin, an agricultural extension student, said, “We were given a platform to express our concerns about the job market and were assured we can innovate and venture into green careers that promote restoration and preservation of the environment.”
Education and social sciences student Abigael Sankoi added, “The highlight was realising that you can develop an idea, grow it, and earn from it by collaborating with organisations already in the field.”
According to Bogonko, the GCC helps students acquire new skills or up-skill in alignment with their studies, preparing them for emerging opportunities in the green economy.
Youth unemployment in Kenya remains a pressing challenge, with 67 percent of students reportedly unaware of green job opportunities, according to JLA. Hendrina Chalwe Doroba, Education and Skills Development Division Manager at AfDB, said the Bank’s investments in education and skills development, including the Higher Education, Science, and Technology (HEST) II Program, complement the GCC’s focus on green skills.
The first phase of the Caravan, running from September 2025 to April 2026, targets 15 universities across eight regions. So far, it has visited the University of Embu, Kisii University, and Taita Taveta University, with plans to reach 42 public universities by 2030.
