Across many African homes, money remains a silent topic. Parents rarely discuss income, savings, or investment strategies. Children grow up believing success comes only from formal education and securing a “good job” — often in the government or county sectors. But the reality is stark: formal employment alone is no longer a guarantee of financial security or generational wealth.
A Generation Facing Tough Realities
Kenya’s youth, aged 15–34, make up about 35% of the population, yet unemployment among them is estimated at around 67%. Even those employed often earn less than KSh 30,000 per month, insufficient to cover basic living expenses in most urban areas.
These statistics fuel perceptions that government and county jobs are unfairly awarded — through nepotism, favoritism, or influence. Whether true or not, these rumors reflect a deeper issue: our reliance on jobs instead of wealth creation.
Why the Traditional “Job-First” Mindset Fails
- Formal jobs are scarce and highly competitive
- Even qualified graduates struggle to secure stable positions
- Low wages push youth toward informal or temporary work
Relying solely on employment leaves families and communities vulnerable. The solution lies in financial literacy and entrepreneurship, not just securing the next available job.
Financial Literacy: The Game Changer
Financial literacy is more than balancing a budget — it is understanding how money works, how to grow it, and how to make informed decisions.
- Evaluating opportunities critically
- Building multiple income streams
- Avoiding dependency on uncertain systems
- Investing wisely for long-term growth
“Financial literacy is not a luxury; it is the foundation for independence and generational wealth.”
Family Businesses: Turning Potential into Prosperity
Family enterprises are one of the most effective ways to achieve intergenerational wealth. They allow knowledge and assets to be passed down, profits to compound over time, and communities to leverage collective resources.
Take Ukambani mango farmers: despite producing world-class fruit, profits remain low due to lack of unity, value addition, and market leverage. A cooperative model could transform production into high-value exports, sustainable jobs, and lasting wealth.
From Rumors to Solutions
Instead of focusing on unverified claims about unfair hiring, we should ask:
- How can we empower young people to create opportunities?
- What skills are missing in schools, homes, and communities?
- How can families work together to unlock resources?
Practical Steps Forward
- Talk about money at home — income, expenses, saving, and investing
- Encourage entrepreneurship alongside employment
- Form family and community enterprises
- Invest in financial literacy education
- Leverage government youth programs and skills initiatives
A New Narrative for Africa
Africa’s youth are its greatest asset. With financial literacy, unity, and entrepreneurship, we can transform today’s economic challenges into tomorrow’s opportunities.
The future will belong to creators, innovators, and entrepreneurs who understand money, seize opportunities, and build wealth that lasts for generations.
Let’s talk about money.
Let’s build together.
Let’s create a legacy.