“I never thought I’d have this chance,” says one young trainee with a smile, adjusting his new toolkit. In a community where opportunities for youth are scarce, African Initiative for Relief and Development (AIRD), Tanzania office, is impacting the lives of youth through mechanical training.

In Tanzania, where youth unemployment continues to be a major challenge, AIRD has launched a free skilling program for young people aged 18 to 25 that started in July 2025. This initiative offers hands-on training in mechanical skills, opening doors to future employment and entrepreneurship.
So far, 16 determined young men and women (one lady) have enrolled in this program, the first of its kind in their community, receiving structured technical training at no cost. Eight of these are from Kasulu, and the other eight are from Kibondo. The training lasts for 6 months. For many, it’s more than learning a trade; it’s a pathway to independence, confidence, and brighter futures.

Behind the scenes, AIRD ensures that students have access to qualified instructors, quality tools, and a supportive learning environment, exposing them to real-world technological advancement. With ongoing investment and community backing, this initiative has the power to scale up and impact even more lives, creating a ripple effect of opportunity across the region.

This program is part of its larger mission to empower communities and tackle the root causes of poverty. By equipping youth with practical expertise, AIRD is investing in a generation that is ready to lead their communities toward growth and stability.

The program is more than training; it’s a lifeline, a bridge to self-reliance, and proof of what’s possible when young people are given the tools to succeed, and AIRD has done exactly that.

Written by
Jackline Victor Lugemwa
Staff, AIRD Tanzania office