Amid rising youth unemployment, baking is emerging as a creative and rewarding career option that combines financial independence with entrepreneurship.
From home-based ventures to professional bakeries, the growing demand for skilled bakers offers young Kenyans an avenue to sustainable livelihoods while contributing to the country’s economy.
Vivian Chemtai, a baker based in Lang’ata, Nairobi, turned her childhood passion for baking into a successful career.
Inspired by her father, who often baked for the family, she grew up admiring the craft.
Determined to professionalize her skills, she enrolled at a college where she pursued baking as a formal course.
"Although I had basic skills, I needed certification to compete globally or establish my own business," Vivian explains.
Today, she not only bakes for a living but also uses her creativity to craft unique recipes, showcasing baking as both an art and a science.
According to market research, the global bakery market is projected to reach $625 billion by 2027, driven by urbanization, changing consumer tastes, and a preference for fresh, quality products.
This presents immense opportunities for young bakers to tap into both local and international markets.
Martin Ngaira, a baker employed at a leading bakery in Nairobi, highlights how baking has enriched his professional life.
“It’s fulfilling to see people enjoy what I create. Baking has sharpened my creativity and discipline while opening doors for career growth,” he says
Martin’s journey underscores the versatility of baking, which offers pathways for both employment and entrepreneurship.
Sharon Rono, another graduate has ventured into baking as an entrepreneur. Beyond running her business, she trains aspiring bakers, equipping them with the skills needed to excel.
“I’ve turned my passion into a livelihood while empowering others to pursue their dreams,” Sharon shares.
Her story reflects the transformative potential of baking in addressing youth unemployment.
Michael Ndirangu, a baker working in Nairobi’s CBD, also embraced the profession three years ago after modest KCSE results left him seeking alternative career paths.
Captivated by cooking from a young age, he found baking to be an enjoyable way to experiment with flavours while creating unique delicacies.
“There are no jobs meant for men or women anymore,” he says, pointing to examples of women mechanics and men excelling in traditionally female-dominated fields such as hairdressing and nail care.
Ndirangu has used his skills to sustain himself in the city, often baking for friends during special occasions as a profitable side hustle.
However, starting his bakery remains a challenge.
“The cost of rent, licenses, and taxes is too high for me at the moment,” he explains.
Despite the hurdles, he plans to advance his studies and dreams of working in internationally renowned bakeries and also owning one.
