Over 800 artisans in Laikipia County have been accredited by the National Construction Authority (NCA) to enhance their employability and hone their skills in the construction sector.
The NCA General Manager in charge of construction research, business development, and capacity building, architect Juliet Kabere, speaking after the accreditation exercise at Thingithu Secondary School in Nanyuki on Wednesday, said that most of the construction work is done by the artisans who need to be equipped with proper skills.
“We are happy to empower construction workers in Laikipia. The bulk of the work is mostly done by the construction workers, and when the skills are lacking, it means you can compromise the quality of work,” Arch Kabere said.
In the exercise, which saw plumbers, masons, painters, electricians, and site supervisors registered by the construction authority, Arch Kabere said that the move would ensure that buildings were safe due to the availability of skilled labourers in the construction industry.
Laikipia County Woman Representative Jane Kagiri said that the accreditation of the local artisans would ensure they got jobs in the on-going government programme of affordable housing projects.
“We have registered over 800 artisans from various areas, including electricians, plumbers, and masons, and they know they are ready for opportunities in the construction sector,” said Kagiri.
She lamented that locals missed out on opportunities in the construction industry due to lack of requisite skills and certification.
The artisans lauded the registration exercise, which was supported by the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF), and noted accreditation would help them get job opportunities and support their families.
Recently, residents had criticised the Nanyuki Affordable Housing contractor for not offering them job opportunities; however, with the registration, it was a relief since they would benefit after acquiring skills.
By Muturi Mwangi
