EFFECT OF EMPLOYMENT ON THE URBAN YOUTH SAVINGS: A CASE STUDY OF NAIROBI CITY COUNTY, KENYA

Economic Theory

Abstract Savings play a vital role as they act as backstop for capital formation and economic growth. A better saving behavior is the basis of a sound economic and financial policy. Studies on savings have historically taken a central position in several economic research areas. Issues and problems related to savings among households and individuals have gained significant importance in microeconomic studies as savings stimulate larger investments and higher gross domestic product growth. Studies conducted in developing countries have shown that savings remain low particularly among the youth due to various factors such as high unemployment rates, limited access to financial services and high dependency rates among other factors. Low savings inhibit the availability of investment funds. This research study examined the effect of employment on the urban youth savings using Ordinary Least Squares estimation method. The goal was to get an understanding on the effect of employment factors on the uptake of savings by the youth. A cross-sectional research design was adopted where primary data was collected from the youth in Nairobi City County. Random sampling technique was used to select the respondents in the survey where self-administered questionnaires were administered to 400 urban youth. The study’s results demonstrated a showed a positive relationship between employment on the level of savings among the urban youth. Other factors such as rate of return was found positively affect savings while factors such as age, number of dependants and education effected savings negatively. The study concluded that creating more employment opportunities for the youth through quality job and through revitalizing both the formal and informal sector and offering higher rate of returns on savings would be critical in mobilization of savings.

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