Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi speaking at the Wajir Vocational Training Centre./STEPHEN ASTARIKO
TIKA country director Yasemin Cansuz-Kurt speaking at the
event./STEPHEN ASTARIKO
Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi has called for greater investment in vocational training to empower young people and unlock the county’s economic potential.
Speaking at the Wajir Vocational Training Centre on Saturday during a graduation ceremony for 40 women who completed a tailoring programme, Abdullahi said technical skills are vital in addressing unemployment and fostering self-reliance.
The training was delivered through a partnership between the county government and the Turkish International Cooperation and Development Agency (TIKA).
“Our youth are our greatest asset — full of energy, creativity, and the desire to contribute meaningfully to society,” Abdullahi said.
“But for their potential to be realised, we must equip them with the right tools. Vocational training centres offer practical, market-driven education that prepares them for today’s jobs and tomorrow’s opportunities.”
He praised the 40 graduates as a symbol of what is possible when women are empowered with knowledge, tools, and opportunity.
“This is a powerful reminder that empowered women uplift households, strengthen communities, and transform society,” he said.
To support continued growth, the governor directed the county’s Department of Education to help form a Community-Based Organisation (CBO) to enable the women to expand their work and access broader markets.
He also commended his wife, County First Lady Rukia Abdinasir, for championing the project and thanked the Turkish government for their ongoing support.
“In a special way, I want to thank the Turkish Government, through Country Director Yasemin Cansuz-Kurt, for your partnership and unwavering support to our county,” he said.
TIKA donated 40 industrial electric sewing machines to the Centre, helping launch a production line for school uniforms, reusable sanitary towels, and other clothing items.
These products are expected to meet local demand while providing a sustainable source of income for the women.
Cansuz-Kurt said the initiative reflects TIKA’s commitment to inclusive development.
“We are proud to have partnered with the county government on this meaningful initiative. Together, we are building a foundation for sustainable development and inclusive growth,” she said.
The reusable sanitary towels will play a critical role in keeping girls in school by improving menstrual hygiene and dignity, a key factor in ensuring girls stay in class and succeed.
All 40 graduates will now be retained at the Wajir Vocational Training Centre’s workshop to continue their work and expand their reach.
Governor Abdullahi urged more young people across the county to embrace vocational training opportunities available at the Centre.
“We must move beyond the traditional chase for white-collar jobs,” he said.
“Let’s embrace hands-on skills that directly serve the needs of our local economy and offer a pathway to financial independence."
