In the bustling village of Oldonyiro, the constant hum of motorcycles fills the air, a testament to their growing popularity in Northern Kenya. At the heart of this movement is a modest garage run by Mr. Lesaanangi, a skilled motorcycle mechanic who has become a beacon of hope for many young people in the community. Thanks to the Nawiri apprenticeship programme, Mr. Lesaanangi is now passing on his expertise to a new generation of mechanics, ensuring that these young minds have the tools to build a future for themselves.

A Lifeline for Youth Employment

In a region where opportunities for formal employment are limited, the Nawiri programme recognized the need to equip the youth with practical skills that would enable them to thrive in their own communities. Mr. Lesaanangi, who has been repairing motorcycles for over a decade, was the perfect candidate to lead this initiative. He eagerly accepted the opportunity, grateful not only for the stipend but for the chance to give back to his community. “I’ve been doing this work for years,” he says with a smile. “Now, it’s time to teach others what I know.”

One of his apprentices is Mark Taimbo, a 23-year-old Form Four graduate, who despite having the option to pursue a driving course through Nawiri, opted instead to follow a different path. “I saw how competitive the driving industry was,” Mark explains. “But I realised that with motorcycle mechanics, I could be self-employed and start my own business.” His choice reflects the growing demand for motorcycle repair services in the area, as motorcycles are becoming the preferred mode of transport for many.

Learning by Doing

For the past three months, Mark has shadowed Mr. Lesaanangi, absorbing every lesson with dedication and enthusiasm. He never misses a day at the workshop, diligently honing his skills. “What I’ve learned here is not just how to fix a motorcycle,” Mark says, his hands covered in grease but his eyes shining with pride. “I’ve learned discipline, patience, and the importance of hard work.”

Mr. Lesaanangi speaks highly of his young trainee. “He’s eager to learn and always focused,” he notes. “I see a bright future for him. He’s not just picking up tools; he’s picking up life skills that will serve him well in the years to come.”

A New Path to Self-Sufficiency

The garage has become more than just a place of work; it is a symbol of empowerment. For Mr. Lesaanangi, teaching the youth is a way to ensure that they can become self-sufficient and take control of their destinies. “This trade has given me everything I have,” he says. “And now, I want these young people to have the same chance.”

As motorcycles continue to dominate the roads in Oldonyiro and surrounding villages, the demand for skilled mechanics grows. Mr. Lesaanangi’s apprentices are poised to meet that demand, ensuring that they not only find employment but also contribute to the development of their community.

The Future Beckons

With every bolt tightened and every engine repaired, the apprentices are inching closer to independence. “I’m confident that when I finish my training, I’ll be able to open my own garage,” says Mark with determination. “I’ll be my own boss and hopefully, one day, I’ll also train others, just like Mr. Lesaanangi.”

For now, the workshop is a place of unity and shared purpose. As the sun sets over Oldonyiro, casting long shadows across the garage, the sound of tools clinking and engines revving signals a future filled with possibility—a future that Mr. Lesaanangi and his apprentices are building one repair at a time.