POLICY BRIEF > The Journey of Shona in Kenya / October 2024 Other key benefits of citizenship include greater mobility and access to credit, facilitating more stable and productive livelihoods. About 39 percent of respondents mentioned that it is now easier to travel for work, allowing them to explore job opportunities in broader geographic areas. Furthermore, 38 percent reported improved access to credit, which is critical for expanding small businesses or starting new ventures. These changes underscore the transformative role of citizenship in enabling the Shona community to overcome previous barriers to economic participation and build sustainable livelihoods. Moreover, citizenship has also led to increased access to training and educational opportunities, while reducing discrimination in the workplace. Over a third of the Shona noted that they have had more opportunities for training or education since becoming citizens, helping them to build skills and enhance their employability. Another 30 percent reported experiencing less discrimination at work, which has contributed to more positive employment outcomes and a more inclusive work environment. Overall, these improvements indicate that legal recognition has been pivotal in unlocking the economic potential of the Shona community, setting the stage for greater socioeconomic mobility and long-term development. ► Box 2: Findings from focus group discussions Many of the survey results are consistent with findings from qualitative focus group discussions, including challenges associated with securing economic opportunities. The Shona community faces challenges predominantly stemming from low education levels and the absence of formal qualifications to which the lack of nationality and documentation has been a major contributor. The acquisition of citizenship has provided some new avenues, especially for the youth, such as working in the hospitality industry and the ability to obtain driving licenses, which has opened job opportunities in the transportation sector. However, most of the community still relies on traditional trades such as carpentry and basket weaving. The competitive nature of these trades, coupled with a lack of diversification in skills and economic opportunities, is prompting members to explore new economic avenues. This situation highlights the need for economic development initiatives that are tailored to the community's unique needs and skills, offering sustainable and diversified economic opportunities. The youth within the Shona community demonstrate a keen interest in enhancing their skills and seeking opportunities beyond conventional trades. The improvement in access to education is a positive development, yet the challenge of transitioning into the formal labor market remains significant. Citizenship has facilitated easier mobility and enabled traditional vending activities, but it has not led to substantial changes in long-term career prospects. This underscores the need for targeted youth development programs focusing on vocational training, career counseling, and job placement services to help bridge the gap between education and employment. The primary needs identified within the Shona community include access to affordable housing, better integration into the labor market, financial support for business development, and political representation. External support in these areas, such as land allocation advocacy, education and skills training programs, and inclusion in national safety programs, is essential for providing a foundation for sustained community growth and prosperity. Partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, and international organizations could be instrumental in addressing these needs, ensuring that the Shona community has the necessary resources and support to thrive in a post-citizenship era. Nationality as a tool for development Inclusive national identification systems are recognized as key enablers for development. Allowing people to establish and verify their identity is often a prerequisite for access to services and economic opportunities and exercising a range of rights, such as property ownership and public participation. For governments and businesses, www.unhcr.org 9