Tessie Mudavadi, TİKA Launch Barista Training Centre to Boost Youth Skills at Utalii College

Story by Ayubu John photo journalist from Afrimedia Group news 
Kenya’s hospitality and coffee sectors
 received a major boost following the launch of a modern Barista Training Centre at Utalii College, an initiative spearheaded by the Ushiriki Wema Foundation in partnership with the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA).
The centre was officially unveiled in the presence of Mrs. Tessie Mudavadi, Founder of the Ushiriki Wema Foundation, senior government officials,
representatives of TİKA, Utalii College leadership, and invited guests. The project aims to equip young people and women with practical, internationally competitive skills in coffee preparation and hospitality services.
Speaking during the launch, Mrs. Mudavadi underscored the importance of skills-based training in driving social transformation and economic empowerment. She noted that the Barista Training Centre is designed to create pathways to employment while adding value to Kenya’s globally renowned coffee industry.
The initiative is supported by the Government of the Republic of Türkiye through TİKA, which has implemented nearly 291 development projects across Kenya since 2006. These projects reflect Türkiye’s long-standing commitment to people-centred development, vocational training, and sustainable growth across Africa.
The newly established centre is fully equipped with modern coffee technology and will offer both theoretical and hands-on training. Students will gain practical experience across the entire coffee value chain, from roasting and espresso preparation to cold beverage production, positioning them for opportunities in the tourism and hospitality industries.
Tourism Principal Secretary John Lekakeny Ololtuaa hailed the project as timely, noting that Kenya’s tourism sector continues to grow alongside rising global appreciation for Kenyan coffee. He emphasized that skilled professionals are critical to improving service quality and competitiveness.
Beyond skills development, the Barista Training Centre stands as a symbol of deepening cooperation between Kenya and Türkiye. It also highlights the impact of strategic partnerships between government institutions, development agencies, and philanthropic foundations.
The project partners expressed confidence that the centre will serve as a model for vocational training in Africa, contributing to youth employment, enhanced service standards, and sustainable economic growth.

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