NAIROBI, Kenya — Kiambu Senator Karungo Thang’wa has highlighted the scale of youth unemployment in Kenya following the overwhelming response to a single Photographer and Video Editor vacancy in his office.
The advertisement, posted on January 25, 2026, sought a candidate capable of documenting public interest activities, including in volatile and unpredictable environments.
The application period has now closed.
A total of 576 applications were received, 533 from men and 43 from women, all competing for just one vacancy.
UPDATE ON PHOTOGRAPHER & VIDEO EDITOR RECRUITMENT – A MIRROR OF KENYA’S UNEMPLOYMENT CRISIS JANUARY 25, 2026, my office posted an advertisement seeking a Photographer and Video Editor,a single position. The advert was intentionally candid about the nature of the role: the
The high number of applicants underscores the fierce competition young Kenyans face for entry-level opportunities.
“Nearly 600 qualified young Kenyans are competing for a single job. This is a situation to address, not a statistic to brag about,” Senator Thang’wa said.
He questioned the effectiveness of government initiatives like the Nyota Program, which was designed to combat youth unemployment, noting the gap between policy and reality.
The role demanded courage, as applicants would face situations involving police presence, tear gas, and politically sensitive environments. Yet the overwhelming response demonstrates that Kenya’s youth are willing to take risks in pursuit of meaningful opportunities.
Senator Thang’wa called on the National Government to urgently review youth employment policies, emphasizing that current programs are failing the generation they were intended to serve.
While only one candidate will be selected, the Senator emphasized that all applications represent a valuable talent pool, and his office will continue to explore opportunities to engage and support young professionals.
“We are grateful to all 576 applicants. Your courage, talent, and willingness to step forward have not gone unnoticed,” Senator Thang’wa said.
