Examining career growth trends and opportunities in Kenya's job market

According to the Project Management Institute's Global Project Management Job Trends 2023 report, organizations are focused on hiring problem solvers and relationship builders to help them deliver value.

This is particularly important in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has led to significant disruptions in the workplace.

In Kenya, the job market is heavily influenced by various factors such as economic growth, political stability, and technological advancements. According to a report by the International Labour Organization (ILO), as of 2020, Kenya's labour market was characterized by high rates of unemployment, particularly among the youth.

The report further stated that the COVID-19 pandemic had worsened the situation by leading to job losses and reduced working hours. The report noted that the pandemic had negatively affected the labour market, and the effects could be felt for an extended period.

The Information Communication Technology (ICT) industry in Kenya is one that shows great promise, having experienced steady growth over the past decade and projected to continue growing in the future.

The industry offers high-skilled jobs in areas such as software development, digital marketing, and e-commerce, with the potential for even more high-skilled jobs to be created in the coming years, according to the Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA).

To take advantage of these opportunities, upskilling or reskilling in these areas is essential for career success.

In addition to the ICT industry, the healthcare industry in Kenya is also showing promise of growth. According to a report by Africa Health Business, Kenya's healthcare market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 9.9% from 2020 to 2025.

A report by PwC cites factors such as a growing middle class, increasing life expectancy, and a rise in non-communicable diseases as drivers of this growth. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of healthcare and led to increased investment in the sector, which is likely to continue in the coming years.

The demand for healthcare professionals and services is expected to increase, making this a good field for those looking for career opportunities. Certification and membership in professional organizations can help individuals stay up-to-date with the latest skills and knowledge in the healthcare industry.

Major energy projects are also being considered, which will provide opportunities for project managers with construction experience. Project managers with professional certification, experience with AI or software development, and a mix of technical and power skills will be in a good position to take advantage of opportunities in these sectors.

PMI's research indicates that project management-oriented positions are experiencing high demand worldwide, requiring an estimated 2.3 million people annually to fill these positions by 2030. This trend is similarly observed in Kenya, where project management skills are highly coveted across multiple industries.

Other promising industries in Kenya include education, agriculture, finance, and creative industries. The government's focus on education has led to increased demand for education professionals.

The strong agricultural sector requires skilled professionals in agronomy, agribusiness, and food processing. The financial sector is rapidly growing, with demand for banking, accounting, and financial planning professionals. The creative industries are also showing growth, with opportunities for entrepreneurs and professionals in design, fashion, and media.

Closing the skills gap and retaining the right talent in Kenya requires a multi-faceted approach that will require upskilling and reskilling the existing workforce to meet the demands of the changing job market. This can be achieved through training programs, apprenticeships, and partnerships between businesses and educational institutions.