Effect of the Structure & Implementation Framework of Youth Enterprise Development Fund on it’s Uptake among the Youth in Bungoma County

Abstract

Youth unemployment remains a pressing global issue, with young people finding it difficult to access formal labor markets. ILO reports indicate that an estimated 75 million youths aged 15 to 24 actively seek work but cannot find it. This study aimed to examine the determinants of the uptake of the Youth Enterprise Development Fund among youth groups in Bungoma County. The explanatory and explorative research design was employed with a target of 133,000 youths in Bungoma County. The research employed a targeted sampling method, and 290 respondents were selected to participate. Data collection was through questionnaires and focus group discussions, while secondary data was obtained from officers at the YEDF and books. Both qualitative and quantitative data were collected and subjected to descriptive and inferential statistical analysis. Data was presented and interpreted using tables and charts according to the set research objectives. Despite the fund being poised as a great policy initiative to address perennial youth unemployment, lack of clear eligibility criteria, long waiting time and application process, lack of stakeholder support, low levels of organizational development, corruption, lack of awareness, and insufficient training have caused low uptake of Youth Enterprise Development Fund.