A total of 100 dependents, aged 18-25, of Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) servicemen and women, including those from the Kenya Navy, have graduated from the third cohort of the construction skills and development training program, ‘Tufuzu.’
The dependents graduated with plumbing and electrical skills.
The program, a partnership between The Family Group Foundation and the Military Wives Association of Kenya (MWAK), was rolled out on December 24, 2024.
It has already seen successful graduations from the first and second cohorts of Kenya Army and Kenya Air Force dependents bringing the total number of beneficiaries to 201 in all the three cohorts.
100 KDF Dependents Graduate with Plumbing and Electrical Skills
The first cohort saw 51 graduates from Kenya Army dependents, while the second cohort included 50 graduates from Kenya Air Force dependents.
The initiative also aims to empower Kenya Defence Forces youth dependents with accessible, affordable, and industry-relevant training.
At the same time, it provides young adults access to labour markets, financing, and linkages to other strategic partners.
The three-month training program integrates hands-on technical training certified by the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA) and the NCA, ensuring that graduates meet industry standards.
Furthermore, it’s goal is to accelerate access to dignified and sustainable income opportunities within the KDF fraternity.
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Speaking at the graduation ceremony held at Mtongwe Kenya Navy Headquarters, Chief of Defence Forces, (CDF) General Charles Kahariri, commended the program’s impact in equipping young people with marketable skills.
Kahariri said it is evident that the initiative went beyond technical skills, equipping participants with soft skills, financial literacy, and essential toolkits to give them a competitive edge in the job market
“I am pleased to witness the profound impact this training program has had on these deserving young men and women,” he said.
“My office is committed to scaling up and expanding this opportunity to empower even more young people, ensuring they have the skills and resources needed to build successful careers,” he said.
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How MWAK and Family Banks are Shaping Up the Youth
On her part, Family Bank CEO Nancy Njau stated that the bank believes true impact goes beyond banking; it’s about transforming lives and building a legacy of opportunity.
“With over Ksh 55 million invested in vocational training, we are not just equipping young Kenyans with skills; we are shaping futures, strengthening families, and fueling economic resilience,” Njau said.
She further mentioned that 87% of beneficiaries have attained National Construction Authority (NCA) accreditation, and 15% have joined the Kenya Defence Forces as skilled tradesmen.
Additionally, 23% have upskilled in solar energy, and over 30% have transitioned into employment, while others are exploring entrepreneurship.
“These outcomes reflect the transformative power of vocational training in securing a brighter future for our youth,” she said.
Military Wives Association of Kenya Chairperson, Ma’am Grace Kahariri, noted that the program is structured under their education pillar as an association, with this partnership serving as a key enabler.
“We are also pleased to have the Kenya Navy co-invest in this cohort by sponsoring 50 students, complementing the 50 students sponsored by the Foundation. This joint effort strengthens our mission to empower and uplift young talent,” she stated.
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