Youth rural-urban migration in Bungoma, Kenya: Implications for the agricultural workforce

Abstract

This study provides insights into a specific, hard-to-reach youth subpopulation—those born in agricultural areas in Western Kenya who migrate to large towns and cities—that is often missed by research and development activities. Using a mixed-methods approach, we find high variability in movement of youth between rural villages, towns, and large urban areas. Top reasons for youth migration align with existing literature, including pursuit of job opportunities and education. For youth from villages where crop farming is the primary economic activity for young adults, 77 percent responded that they are very interested in that work, in contrast to the common notion that youth are disinterested in agriculture. We also find many youth interested in settling permanently in their villages in the future. This research confirms that youth migration is dynamic, requiring that policymakers and development practitioners employ methods of engaging youth that recognize the diversity of profiles and mobility of this set of individuals.