By Elizabeth Angira
The skilled labour crunch, has been attributed to the latest trend where students shun technical education in favor of courses that lead to office jobs, has raised home construction costs – forcing cash-strapped developers to cut back on new project launches.
To tackle this challenge head-on, Bobasi MP Innocent Obiri, in collaboration with the National Construction Authority (NCA), has taken proactive measures.
Together, they have initiated a training program aimed at empowering artisans in the Bobasi constituency.
The goal is to promote the agenda of affordable housing by enhancing the skills of construction workers.
During the training at Bobasi constituency, the NCA focused on imparting knowledge about the laws, policies, and procedures governing the construction industry. This comprehensive approach aims to address issues such as poor workmanship and the substandard quality of construction projects.
Susan Ruto, the General Manager overseeing registration and compliance at NCA, emphasized the importance of investing in skilled workers.
She highlighted that while attention often centers on contractors, neglecting the development of skilled workers undermines the construction industry’s success.
“The reason as to why we have embarked on to train youth son these important skills,” she said.
Ruto emphasized the pivotal role of skilled construction workers and site supervisors in realizing the government’s affordable housing agenda.
Ruto further explained the NCA’s plan to certify skilled workers through accreditation programs. By providing professional accreditation, the institution aims to validate the expertise of these workers and enhance their employability.
MP Innocent Obiri emphasized the significance of training various professionals in the construction industry, including plumbers, electricians, and steel fixers.
“By enhancing vocational skills, the initiative seeks to improve the quality and safety of construction projects,” Obiri said.
Obiri said that the shortage of skilled workers has compelled property developers to resort to hiring unqualified artisans, leading to an increase in building collapse incidents.
Ward representative Sameta Mokwerero praised the initiative, highlighting its potential to empower youth and improve job prospects, both domestically and internationally.
Nathan Oteri, a beneficiary of the training program, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to acquire professional skills.
He believes that the training has equipped him to pursue job opportunities confidently and contribute effectively to the construction sector.
Ruto said that in addressing the shortage of skilled construction workers is crucial for Kenya’s housing sector. Through collaborative efforts between government bodies, lawmakers, and training institutions like the NCA, initiatives aimed at empowering artisans and enhancing their professional capabilities can play a vital role in overcoming this challenge and ensuring the quality and safety of construction projects across the country.
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Elizabeth Angira is a trailblazing climate journalist whose work bridges science, policy, and human impact. As Senior Climate Reporter at The Mount Kenya Times, she leads in-depth coverage on climate resilience, energy innovation, and sustainability across East Africa and beyond. Her storytelling has earned international acclaim, including a third-place win for “The Best Energy Story in Foreign Media” by the Global Energy Association in Moscow.
Elizabeth’s portfolio reflects her commitment to excellence and advocacy:
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