As a young professional and the Property and MSMEs Development Manager at Diaspora University Town (DUT), I am proud to be part of a transformative project that is opening doors for thousands of Kenyan youths. DUT is not just about constructing buildings or paving roads; it’s about creating opportunities, empowering generations, and laying the foundation for a sustainable and vibrant future.
The Diaspora University Town project is set to create 20,000 jobs. About 70% of these jobs will go to young people aged 18 to 35, Gen Z. This is a significant step in addressing the unemployment challenges that so many face. The jobs will cut across different sectors, including construction, healthcare, education, and entrepreneurship. Young professionals will find opportunities in building the town’s infrastructure, offering services in the upcoming university and hospital, and running businesses in the 300 MSMEs planned for the town. These are the kinds of opportunities that not only provide income but also allow young people to develop their skills, gain experience, and build lasting careers.
Education is at the heart of DUT. The Diaspora University being established will provide Kenyan youth with access to quality education that is tailored to meet global standards. As a university graduate myself, I know firsthand how education can transform one’s life. The courses offered at the Diaspora University will prepare students not only for employment but also to create opportunities for themselves and others. For many young Kenyans, this will be a game-changer—a chance to access the kind of education that equips them to compete on a global scale while contributing to their local communities.
Housing is another critical issue that DUT addresses. Many young professionals and families struggle to find affordable, decent housing. DUT’s plan of 3,778 plots includes 3,500 plots that will feature townhouses, 8 plots for building 3,200 apartments and 45 plots for other residential facilities. These homes will not only be affordable but also located in a clean and healthy environment with paved roads, proper sewer systems, storm water management, and green spaces. This town offers the kind of living environment that we, as young people, aspire to have. It’s not just about having a roof over your head; it’s about living in a community that inspires productivity, creativity, and a sense of pride.
One of the most exciting aspects of DUT is its commitment to environmental sustainability. In Kenya, many towns and settlements fail to uphold our constitutional right to a clean and healthy environment. DUT is setting a new standard by ensuring that every resident, student, and visitor has this right every day. We are planting 200,000 trees to create green spaces and improve air quality. Paved roads will reduce dust. Proper waste management systems will eliminate the sight and smell of household waste in public areas. The storm water and sewer systems are designed to prevent flooding and contamination. These measures not only promote physical health but also create an environment where families can live and have children without worrying about basic living conditions.
Entrepreneurship is another area where DUT is making a significant impact. One of my roles at DUT is to process expressions of interest from entrepreneurs who want to establish businesses in the town. So far, we’ve opened 17 MSME files and allocated 26 plots, with many more in progress. For young innovators, DUT is a place where ideas can come to life. Whether it’s starting a tech company, running a retail shop, or launching a creative venture, the town is designed to support these businesses.
Beyond the jobs and the infrastructure, DUT is about building a community. The project brings together people from different generations, encouraging collaboration and mentorship. Diaspora Kenyans bringing back their expertise and experience, will guide younger individuals, ensuring the transfer of skills and knowledge. This mentorship not only benefits the younger generation but also helps create a sense of belonging and ownership. For me, this is one of the most inspiring aspects of DUT—a community where everyone works together to build something meaningful.
As a young Kenyan, I know the struggles we face every day: unemployment, limited opportunities, and unplanned settlements. Diaspora University Town is addressing these issues directly. It is creating a space where we can achieve our potential, build sustainable careers, and live in a clean and well-planned environment. DUT is not just a development; it is a movement, a chance for us as youth to lead, innovate, and thrive.
DUT represents a future where the youth are empowered and play a central role in shaping the country’s development. It is a vision that I am honored to be part of, and I am excited to see how it will transform the lives of young people across Kenya. Together, we can take this opportunity and make it our own, building a town and a future that we can all be proud of.
Written by Faith Mwachala, Property and MSMEs Development Manager, Diaspora University Town [email protected]
