Kisumu: A Sh1.2 billion textile technology factory, which has been under construction at the Kisumu National Polytechnic, is 98 percent complete and set for commissioning in April this year to develop skills and competencies to drive the textile sector. State Department for Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Principal Secretary (PS) Dr. Esther Thaara Muoria expressed satisfaction with the works despite delays due to several issues.
According to Kenya News Agency, the project is funded by the World Bank through the East Africa Skills for Transformation and Regional Integration Project (EASTRIP). The facility includes a production unit for spinning, weaving, and garment making to boost the regional cotton industry. The regional flagship center for textile technology project is part of a broader regional program aimed at strengthening technical skills, enhancing industry linkages, and promoting value addition across participating East African countries.
The construction of the textile technology factory at Kisumu National Polytechnic began with a groundbreaking ceremony in February 2022 and was expected to be completed in early 2025. However, it experienced a few bottlenecks that led the PS to cancel the contract of the sub-contractor. The PS emphasized vigilance and close supervision of projects to ensure value for money. She mentioned that Sh40 million in retention money would be used to refine and polish up any remaining areas of the project, including repainting and landscaping.
The Regional Flagship TVET Institute for Textile Technology aims to develop skills and competencies to drive the textile sector. The facility includes a factory, modern laboratories, tuition blocks, hostels, studios, and workshops to provide students with an environment to gain skills that meet both local and regional industry standards. The project emphasizes curriculum enhancement and new teaching methodologies to address the changing needs of the textiles industry, boosting practical training in Kenya’s textile industry.
Dr. Muoria highlighted that the project targets developing the regional textile industry through high-quality training, problem-solving, research, innovation, and technology transfer. She noted that the institution will work with cotton farmers in the region to ensure a steady supply of raw cotton to the factory, thus creating jobs.
Collaboration with the county government will mobilize cotton farmers to supply cotton for processing. The Government of Kenya aims to ensure value addition at the production source. Farmers will earn from selling cotton to the institution, providing employment opportunities, and offering students training in cotton processing, ginning, and textile.
Dr. Muoria encouraged learners to apply for various certificate and diploma programs at Kisumu Polytechnic and other tertiary institutions through the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS). Programs such as tiling, carpentry, and walling, examined by the Curriculum Development Assessment and Certification (CDACC), aim to equip youth with skills for local and overseas job markets.
