Wema Foundation and Turkish Cooperation and Coordinating Agency TIKA, have joined hands in  establishing a Fully Equipped Barista Training center at Kenya’s Premier Hospitality and Tourism Training Institution, The Utalii College. The initiative equips students with industry-aligned, practical skills across the coffee value chain, enhancing employability and income opportunities both locally and internationally, while adding value to Kenya’s globally respected coffee industry. The Barista Training Centre is now fully operational, equipped with modern technology, and offers both theoretical and hands-on training across the entire coffee journey from farm to cup

Speaking during the Official launch of the partnership, Madam Tessie Musalia, spouse to Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and Chair of the Ushiriki Wema Foundation, implored students at Kenya Utalii College to turn acquired skills into life-changing opportunities.

“the strong and growing partnership between Kenya and Türkiye in skills-based development to ensure trainees are well equipped for the job market in Kenya and the region” Said Maadam Mudavadi

Her Sentiments were echoed by the Turkeiye Ambassador to Kenya Yuksel reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to youth empowerment and vocational training in Kenya, noting that tourism and coffee remain vital pillars of the country’s economy.

“Kenya is one of Africa’s leading tourist destinations and is globally recognized for its high-quality coffee. To unlock the full potential of these sectors, there is a growing need for skilled professionals who can add value across the coffee industry,” he said.

The Ambassador commended Madam Tessie for her dedication to social development and youth empowerment, which he said were instrumental to the project’s success.
He added that since 2006, TİKA has implemented nearly 291 development projects in Kenya valued at over USD 11.16 million, demonstrating Türkiye’s commitment to people-centred and sustainable development.

The project aims to train professional baristas for Kenya’s coffee and tourism sectors, improve service quality in the hospitality industry, and create additional value along the coffee production and consumption chain.