Kenya, Aug. 5 -- Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has spotlighted the significant job opportunities for Kenyan youth stemming from Kenya's role as co-host of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Speaking at a youth empowerment event in Nairobi, Passaris emphasised that the influx of visitors filling hotels for these tournaments will create immediate employment in hospitality while also opening doors for international jobs abroad in related sectors.
Her remarks show the potential economic boost from hosting these prestigious football events alongside Tanzania and Uganda.
Kenya's co-hosting of CHAN 2024 and AFCON 2027 is set to transform the job landscape, particularly for young Kenyans, as hotels, restaurants, and tourism-related businesses gear up for an influx of fans and officials.
With Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani and Nyayo Stadium upgraded to CAF standards, the demand for hospitality staff, including waiters, chefs, and front-office workers, is surging.
Passaris noted that hotels like Fairmont The Norfolk and Sarova Panafric are reporting near-full bookings, driving recruitment for roles such as housekeeping, event coordination, and security.
The Kenya Tourism Board projects over 500,000 visitors for CHAN alone, creating an estimated 10,000 temporary jobs in Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu, with many opportunities tailored for youth with minimal experience.
The hospitality job surge extends beyond Kenya's borders, as Passaris highlighted the potential for AFCON and CHAN to open international job markets.
Agencies like Hospitality Jobs Africa are recruiting Kenyans for hotel positions in countries like Uganda, Tanzania, and the Middle East, where tourism is thriving.
For instance, Patrick Wachira, a Kenyan general manager at Crystal Lodges in Uganda, credits his career growth to regional opportunities, a trend Passaris believes will accelerate with AFCON 2027.
Roles such as lodge managers, spa staff, and culinary experts are in demand, with firms like Khaansama and Work in a Resort offering placements in five-star resorts across Europe and Asia for skilled Kenyans. These jobs, often including accommodation, appeal to youth seeking global exposure.
Passaris's advocacy for youth employment aligns with her broader mission to empower Nairobi's young population. She cited the Climate Worx Programme, which recently inducted 25,000 youth, as a model for structured job creation, urging similar initiatives for CHAN and AFCON.
However, challenges persist, as seen in a recent protest by youth training for CHAN security roles at Kasarani, who cited mistreatment and lack of provisions.
Passaris addresses while calling for better coordination by contractors to ensure fair treatment, emphasising that such opportunities must prioritise dignity and fair pay.
International job prospects tied to AFCON and CHAN are gaining traction, particularly in tourism-heavy regions. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has shared resources for Kenyans seeking international roles, directing them to verify opportunities.
Passaris encouraged youth to pursue certifications in hospitality and tourism, noting that programmes like the Nestle CWAR National Service and Amalitech Internships offer training pathways.
These align with Kenya's growing reputation as a hub for skilled labour, with expats like Elizabeth Amolo Ouda finding success in Uganda's Rushaga Gorilla Lodge, a model for cross-border opportunities. The Pan Pacific Hotels Group and Accor also list vacancies for Kenyans willing to relocate, emphasising skills in customer service and event management.
The economic ripple effect of hosting CHAN and AFCON extends to small businesses, with Passaris highlighting opportunities for vendors and transport operators.
However, concerns about exploitation linger, as some agencies charge high fees for overseas placements. Passaris urged vigilance, referencing the ministry's advice to verify job offers.
As Kenya prepares for AFCON 2027, with additional venues like Talanta Hela Stadium, the focus on youth employment in hospitality and tourism could reshape the job market, offering both local and international prospects for a generation eager to seize these opportunities.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Bana Kenya.