GARISSA, Kenya- The National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) has underscored the critical role of economic empowerment in combating radicalization, reaffirming its commitment at the Garissa Job Fair and Employability Summit.
The event, graced by key leaders including Labour Cabinet Secretary Dr. Alfred Mutua, Garissa Governor, and the Vice-Chancellor of Garissa University, brought together stakeholders determined to address youth unemployment and its link to extremism.
With over 2,000 youth engaging with recruiters and securing job opportunities, the summit highlighted the direct connection between employment, economic resilience, and national security.
By equipping young people with job opportunities and vocational skills, stakeholders believe the vulnerability of youth to extremist ideologies can be significantly reduced.
“Radicalization thrives where hopelessness exists. By ensuring our youth have access to gainful employment, we are actively dismantling one of the key drivers of extremism,” said an NCTC official during the event.
NCTC Champions Economic Empowerment as a Tool Against Radicalization at Garissa Job Fair The National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) joined key stakeholders at the Garissa Job Fair and Employability Summit, graced by CS for Labour Dr. Alfred Mutua, Garissa Governor, and Garissa…
The Garissa region, like many others, has faced security challenges due to extremist groups targeting unemployed youth for recruitment.
However, initiatives like the Job Fair provide a proactive approach to preventing radicalization by addressing its root causes—poverty and lack of opportunities.
The summit provided job seekers with access to both local and international recruiters, career guidance, and insights into emerging economic sectors.
Beyond employment, the event also emphasized the importance of skill development and entrepreneurship.
Various organizations showcased training programs and business mentorship initiatives aimed at equipping young people with the tools needed to thrive in an evolving job market.
NCTC remains committed to collaborating with partners to implement long-term strategies that merge security concerns with economic solutions.
The agency continues to advocate for investments in education, vocational training, and job creation, recognizing that a secure future is one where every young person has access to opportunities that steer them away from radical influences.
As Kenya strengthens its fight against extremism, initiatives such as the Garissa Job Fair serve as a testament to the power of economic empowerment in safeguarding communities.
