Songea is the fastest-growing cities in Tanzania. In 1950 the population was just 719, in 2000 it reached 89,915 and in 2024 the population is estimated at 445,968. It faced and is still facing all urbanisation challenges, an increase of economic activities but a lack of skilled labour, and a rampant unemployment among the unskilled youth that forces many into criminal activities. The main factors that constraint young people from finding work include a misalignment of education and labour market needs, lack of experience, nepotism and corruption in the labour market, and a lack of skills and entrepreneurship training.

The project aims to provide the Jitume Vijana Development Association with the resources to offer vocational training (carpentry, tailoring, automotive, or electrical engineering) to both in-school and out-of-school youth. The project will contribute to reducing youth unemployment in Songea.

Jitume Vijana Development Association (JVIDA) is a non-governmental organization established in 2007 in Songea, Tanzania. The organization provides vocational skills training to young people—both those attending school and those out of school—so they can access employment opportunities or start their own businesses.

JVIDA has a team of four qualified instructors, all of whom hold diplomas from VETA (Vocational Education and Training Authority). Due to limited facilities, the training capacity is restricted to a maximum of five students per course. So far, the organization has successfully trained 39 young people in areas such as carpentry, tailoring, automotive mechanics, and electrical installation. Some of them have gone on to establish their own small businesses, while others have found employment with various institutions and companies.

The project offers the opportunity to double the number of young people in vocational training each year. This allows them to acquire skills that will help them find jobs or potentially start their own businesses. Most graduates are expected to become self-employed and start businesses in carpentry, tailoring, automotive mechanics, or electrical installations. The project will contribute to reducing youth unemployment in Songea.

Jitume Vijana Development Association can pay its running costs with the income from the sale of products and the tuition fees of the students.

For the delivery by Vraag & Aanbod International of the necessary machines and tools for vocational training, € 2.700 is needed.