Kisumu: More than 170 youth contractors from the Nyanza and Western regions have converged in Kisumu for a capacity-building programme aimed at improving access to construction financing, training, and business opportunities in the sector.
According to Kenya News Agency, the initiative is organized by the National Construction Authority (NCA) in partnership with the Youth Enterprise Development Fund, Micro and Small Enterprises Authority (MSEA), Mabati Rolling Mills (MRM), and other stakeholders. It seeks to strengthen the capacity of young contractors classified under NCA categories 5, 6, 7, and 8.
Speaking in Kisumu during the Youth-Contractor Empowerment Programme, NCA General Manager in charge of Construction Research, Business Development, and Capacity Building, Dr. Chrispus Ndinyo, emphasized the Authority’s commitment to equipping youth-led firms with essential skills and networks for success in the construction industry. He highlighted the challenge of accessing affordable financing as a significant hurdle for emerging contractors, adding that the programme was designed to connect them with institutions that can support their projects.
The forum brought together officials from the County government, Youth Enterprise Development Fund, National Construction Authority, construction firms, and financial partners to discuss various issues. These included labor mobility, enterprise management, innovation in construction materials, and record-keeping practices that support access to finance and markets. Dr. Ndinyo noted that the initiative is part of a nationwide campaign by the Authority to professionalize the sector and improve standards in the industry, with previous efforts beginning in Nairobi.
The NCA official reported that the Authority has trained about 8,000 contractors this financial year under its Continuous Professional Development programme and is targeting 15 capacity-building forums across the country. He emphasized that enhancing contractors’ technical knowledge is crucial to addressing concerns over substandard construction works.
Youth Enterprise Development Fund Head of Market Access and Innovation, Daniel Mathenge, stated that the programme aims to assist young contractors in navigating industry challenges, particularly financing constraints. He mentioned that while financing is available in the market, it is not always affordable. The Fund offers products that support contractors awarded tenders by various government entities, enabling them to execute projects without financial strain.
Mathenge added that the Fund also focuses on mentorship, coaching, and market linkages to help young entrepreneurs build sustainable businesses. He stressed the importance of guiding young contractors through their entrepreneurship journey and encouraging innovation in the construction sector.
Mabati Rolling Mills Kisumu Branch Manager Elson Okio noted the company’s partnership with NCA to bridge skills gaps among young people in the construction industry. He highlighted the role of the Mabati Technical Training Institute in training young people in technical aspects of construction.
Kisumu County Urban Planner, Frida Odhiambo, mentioned the County government’s efforts to sensitize contractors on emerging opportunities under ongoing development projects and new planning policies. She emphasized the need for young contractors to familiarize themselves with the county’s Local Physical and Land Development Plan to better advise clients and comply with planning requirements. Odhiambo pointed to potential opportunities from affordable housing projects and World Bank-funded developments in newly established municipalities such as Ahero.
Source: Kenya News Agency
