Training sessions for young people in Western Kenya organized by Safaricom Hook
The Safaricom Hook initiative, a youth-focused platform launched by Safaricom, is on a mission to empower young people across Kenya with technical, digital, creative, and life skills. The platform, accessible via the Safaricom Hook app or USSD code 555#, offers mentorship, exclusive content, events, and practical skills training to youth aged 10 to 24.
Recently, Safaricom Hook held engagements in the Greater Western region, including Siaya, Vihiga, and Kisumu, reaching more than 2,000 youth. These on-the-ground events featured masterclasses in various sectors such as plumbing, electricals, hospitality, fashion, and design. Graduates of these masterclasses were awarded certificates and practical rewards like sewing machines, mobile phones, and engineering kits to support their practical application.
In Vihiga County, Safaricom Hook, in partnership with the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) and the Kenya Red Cross, conducted a Boda Boda Youth Forum. This sector-specific training focused on first aid, road safety, and health awareness, equipping 250 boda boda operators with life-saving knowledge.
Safaricom Hook also hosted a visual arts and talent show in Nyalenda, Kisumu, attracting 200 contestants who displayed their skills in various art forms. This event was a testament to the region's vibrant creative pulse. Moreover, the talent show provided participants with mentorship on monetizing their talents, accessing digital platforms, and turning their passion into sustainable income.
James Mukoya, the boda boda chairperson at Mbihi Stage, Mbale, expressed appreciation for the training, stating that it shows Safaricom understands the challenges faced by young people in smaller towns.
Safaricom Hook aims to give youth the mindset, opportunities, and support they need to believe in themselves and thrive. The initiative is part of Safaricom's broader commitment to bridging digital divides by enabling access to affordable data packages and smartphones, fostering confidence and mindset changes by linking education to practical opportunities.
The Safaricom Hook initiative has already reached thousands of youths in multiple counties, equipping them with real-world skills and tools. It supports Kenya’s future workforce and innovation ecosystem, especially in STEM fields through sustained sponsorships and engagement.
Looking ahead, Safaricom plans to continue scaling skills training, mentorship, and digital content across more regions. The company also aims to expand partnerships with government agencies and NGOs for wider reach and impact. Additionally, Safaricom is committed to sustaining support for youth innovation and STEM education via ongoing sponsorships and events. The ultimate goal is to enhance access to affordable technology and connectivity to bridge urban-rural digital divides.
- The Safaricom Hook initiative is not only focusing on technical and digital skills, but also takes a wider approach to empower young Kenyans, providing training in sectors like home-and-garden (plumbing, electrics), lifestyle (fashion, design), health (first aid, road safety), and education-and-self-development (monetizing talents, accessing digital platforms).
- In addition to the practical skills training, Safaricom Hook is also fostering learning in the realm of business, as shown by their support for participants in the talent show in Kisumu, who received mentorship on turning their passion into sustainable income.
- By partnering with government agencies and NGOs, the Safaricom Hook initiative is looking to increase its reach and impact, with a special focus on supporting Kenya’s future workforce and innovation ecosystem, particularly in STEM fields through sustained sponsorships and engagement.
